Kylian Mbappe's goal tally for 2025 now stands at 58, leaving him one goal short of Cristiano Ronaldo's record of 59 goals in a calendar year, which the Portuguese star set at Real in 2013. The French forward has an opportunity to equal or surpass this record when Real faces Sevilla at the Bernabeu in the final match of the year on 20/12.

Kylian Mbappe celebrates a goal during Real's 3-2 victory over Talavera in the King's Cup round of 16 at El Prado, Talavera de la Reina, Spain on 17/12. *Reuters*

Mbappe played the full 90 minutes against third-tier club Talavera. The 2018 World Cup winner contributed to all three goals, scoring a brace and delivering a cross that led to Talavera's own goal.

"Mbappe was decisive with his goals", coach Xabi Alonso said, defending his decision to let Mbappe play the full 90 minutes against the lower-tier club. "He always has a goal-scoring instinct. The third goal was crucial, which is why we kept him on the field."

Mbappe was not the only star Alonso used in this match. Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Rodrygo also came off the bench, indicating Real's reluctance to take risks and their difficulties against the underestimated opponent. Without Andriy Lunin's injury-time save, Real would have conceded an equalizer and gone into extra time.

"This often happens in Cup matches. It's not just us, but many other teams too", Alonso stated, acknowledging Real's inconsistency. "We achieved our objective of progressing, but we need to improve our consistency, better control matches, and show more maturity in key moments."

Coach Xabi Alonso gives instructions during the Talavera match. *Europa Press*

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, two consecutive victories – Alaves 2-1 in La Liga and Talavera 3-2 in the King's Cup – have temporarily bought Alonso more time, but Real's management remains unconvinced. These results are insufficient to dispel doubts, as the team's playing style shows no clear signs of improvement.

An internal assessment suggests the problem is not in individual matches but a more concerning overall picture: the royal club lacks identity, fails to inspire confidence, and Alonso's professional project is believed to be off track.

Against this backdrop, the match against Sevilla will be the next "test" for the Spanish coach. If Real wins Sevilla, the Spanish Super Cup could become a decisive trial, where Real must face Atletico and Barca – opponents where only victory will ensure Alonso remains in his position until the end of the season.

"Pressure on Alonso is growing as Real declines in La Liga, four points behind the top, and consistently projects instability. In the context of a club that does not accept long-term transitions and always demands immediate success, Alonso's future is considered bleak unless he soon creates a clear transformation", Marca commented.

Hong Duy (according to ESPN, Marca)