Real Madrid’s struggles in recent weeks continued as they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Athletic Club on Wednesday night in a LaLiga clash at San Mamés. Kylian Mbappe, who missed his second penalty in a week, has shouldered the blame for the disappointing result.
The match began with both sides displaying cautious play, but it was Athletic Club who broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute through Alex Berenguer. The forward fired a clinical strike past Thibaut Courtois to give the home side the lead.
Real Madrid had an opportunity to draw level shortly after when they were awarded a penalty.
However, Mbappe’s lack of confidence from the spot was evident as he sent a weak shot that was easily saved by Athletic goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala.
Madrid eventually found an equalizer in the 78th minute when Jude Bellingham reacted quickly to bury a rebound and bring his team back into the game.
The momentum seemed to shift toward Los Blancos, but a costly error by Federico Valverde a minute later allowed Gorka Guruzeta to capitalize and score the winning goal for Athletic.
Taking to Instagram after the match, Mbappe expressed regret for his performance and took responsibility for the team’s struggles.
“Bad result. A big mistake in a match where every detail counts,” Mbappe wrote. “I take full responsibility for it. A difficult moment, but it’s the best time to change this situation and show who I am.”
The defeat marks Real Madrid’s fourth loss in their last seven matches across all competitions, raising concerns about the team’s form.