Entering the match at San Mames, Real trailed Barcelona by four points, putting them in a must-win situation. Kylian Mbappe stepped up as the hero of the night, delivering a performance that secured a crucial victory.

In the 7th minute, the French forward received the ball more than 40 m out, dribbled past two home defenders, and from the edge of the box, unleashed a curling shot that beat goalkeeper Unai Simon to open the scoring.

Mbappe celebrates during Real's 3-0 victory over Bilbao in La Liga's 15th round on the evening of 3/12. *Photo: Real*

Mbappe further extended his influence by assisting Real's second goal. In the 42nd minute, following a cross, he headed the ball towards the far post, allowing Eduardo Camavinga to connect with a header that doubled Real's advantage.

In the 59th minute, Mbappe capped his impressive individual display with another long-range stunner. Receiving the ball on the left flank outside the penalty area, the French forward struck a powerful shot into the near corner, securing the decisive victory for his team.

With his brace against Bilbao, Mbappe solidified his lead in the La Liga top scorer race. The Real forward now leads with 16 goals in 15 matches, double the tally of the three players trailing him: Robert Lewandowski, Vedat Muriqui, and Ferran Torres.

Last season, Mbappe claimed the top scorer title with 31 goals in 34 matches. The former PSG star is now well-positioned to defend his title, showcasing consistent form and goal-scoring prowess.

In the next round on 7/12, Real will host Celta Vigo at home. The team's lineup remains uncertain, as Trent Alexander-Arnold and Eduardo Camavinga both sustained injuries and left the field in the second half of the match.

Thanh Quy