Real Madrid maintained their strong start to the LaLiga campaign with a convincing 4-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabéu. Kylian Mbappé was once again at the centre of Madrid’s attacking display, scoring twice as the Spanish giants produced an emphatic home performance.
The hosts established their authority early and quickly put Rayo under pressure. Mbappé broke the deadlock from the penalty spot in the 14th minute after Álvaro Carreras was brought down inside the area. The forward’s composed finish gave Madrid the advantage and set the tone for an impressive opening period.
Madrid wasted little time extending their lead. Just three minutes after Mbappé’s penalty, Carreras added a second goal following a promising attacking move involving the French striker. The early two-goal cushion allowed Real Madrid to play with greater confidence as Rayo struggled to contain the hosts’ movement.
The home side remained aggressive in the final third and continued creating chances. Jude Bellingham then increased Madrid’s advantage in the 34th minute, finishing from close range after a combination involving Vinícius Júnior and Bernardo Silva. By halftime, Real Madrid had established a commanding 3-0 lead.
Rayo Vallecano returned from the interval with greater attacking intent. Their improved approach eventually produced a goal when Sergio Camello found the net early in the second half. The strike reduced the deficit and gave the visitors a brief opportunity to put Madrid under pressure.
Rayo’s stronger spell required Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to remain alert. The visitors created additional openings, while their goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski also made several important saves to prevent Madrid from adding to their advantage.
Despite Rayo’s response, Real Madrid gradually regained control of the contest. The hosts continued searching for a fourth goal and remained dangerous whenever they moved forward. Mbappé came close to completing his hat-trick, but Dimitrievski denied him with a late save.
The Frenchman would not be denied for long. In stoppage time, Arda Güler provided the assist for Mbappé, who finished with a first-time effort to seal his second goal of the night. The late strike completed a brace and put the result beyond doubt.
Mbappé’s latest performance further highlighted his importance to Real Madrid’s attack. His ability to contribute in different situations, including from the penalty spot and during open play, once again gave the club a decisive edge in front of goal.
The victory also strengthened Madrid’s position near the top of the LaLiga standings. The three points moved the club to 12 points, keeping them level with Barcelona at that stage of the weekend, although Barcelona still had a match to play.
For Real Madrid, the result continued an impressive run at the Bernabéu, where the team recorded its fourth consecutive home victory. The performance also demonstrated the club’s attacking depth, with Carreras and Bellingham joining Mbappé on the scoresheet.
Rayo’s second-half response showed that Madrid were not completely comfortable throughout the match, but the damage had already been done during a dominant opening 45 minutes. Real Madrid’s ability to build a substantial early lead ultimately proved decisive.
With the campaign still developing, Mbappé’s goalscoring form will be one of the major storylines surrounding Madrid. His latest brace provided another reminder of his influence, while the team’s overall performance ensured a comfortable victory and valuable momentum in the race at the top of LaLiga.