Mbappe capitalized on a defensive error by Mikel Goti in the 12th minute. He outpaced two Sociedad defenders and slotted the ball past goalkeeper Alex Remiro.

Kylian Mbappe bursts past Igor Zubeldia and Duje Caleta-Car to score the opening goal in Real Madrid's 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad in La Liga's fourth round on 13/9. Photo: Marca

Kylian Mbappe bursts past Igor Zubeldia and Duje Caleta-Car to score the opening goal in Real Madrid's 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad in La Liga's fourth round on 13/9. Photo: Marca

This goal marked Mbappe’s 7th in six matches against Sociedad across all competitions. Excluding French clubs, only Barcelona (11 goals) has conceded more goals to the French forward.

Real Madrid faced a setback in the 32nd minute. Newcomer Dean Huijsen misjudged a long ball, allowing Mikel Oyarzabal to break through. Huijsen pulled Oyarzabal's shirt to stop him, earning a straight red card from referee Jesus Gil, who did not consult VAR. The decision was controversial as the foul occurred near the halfway line with Eder Militao providing cover.

The foul that led to Dean Huijsen's red card. Photo: Tribuna

The foul that led to Dean Huijsen's red card. Photo: Tribuna

At 20 years and 152 days old, Huijsen became the youngest Real Madrid player to be sent off in La Liga since Marcelo (20 years and 138 days old) against Real Betis in September 2008. This was Huijsen’s second red card in just eight appearances for Real Madrid, following his dismissal in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 semi-final.

Despite being a man down, Real Madrid extended their lead in the 44th minute. Mbappe dribbled past a Sociedad defender on the left wing, cut into the penalty area, and set up Arda Guler for a close-range finish.

Arda Guler celebrates his goal with Mbappe. Photo: Real Madrid FC

Arda Guler celebrates his goal with Mbappe. Photo: Real Madrid FC

In the second half, Real Madrid defended deeply. In the 50th minute, Pablo Marin's shot deflected off Aurelien Tchouameni, hit both posts, and was cleared off the line.

Five minutes later, Sociedad were awarded a penalty after Dani Carvajal handled the ball in the box. Oyarzabal converted the penalty, sending Thibaut Courtois the wrong way, to make it 2-1.

Real Madrid held on for the 2-1 victory, their first La Liga win while conceding a penalty and receiving a red card since beating Valladolid 4-1 in March 2019. This was also Real Madrid's 13th win in 22 visits to Anoeta in La Liga this century (3 draws, 6 losses), making them the most successful visiting team at Real Sociedad’s stadium during this period.

Xabi Alonso's Sociedad remain top of La Liga with 12 points. Real Madrid’s next match is against Marseille at the Bernabeu in the opening round of the 2025-2026 Champions League on 16/9.

Hong Duy