Kylian Mbappé etched his name in the record books once again on Saturday, equaling Cristiano Ronaldo for the most goals scored by a Real Madrid player in a single calendar year.
The achievement was nearly out of reach for the French striker until he successfully converted a penalty kick with just four minutes remaining, sealing a 2-0 victory over 10-man Sevilla in Madrid’s last match of the year.
Mbappé celebrated the occasion, which coincided with his 27th birthday, with a toned-down version of Ronaldo’s signature “Siu” celebration, followed by a kiss toward the cameras.
“It’s a special day,” said Mbappé. “We won the game, which was the main goal. Achieving this record in my first year at Real Madrid, matching the best player in the club’s history, is incredible. Cristiano has always been a role model in world football for me.”
“It’s an honor to receive this recognition. He has always been supportive, advising me about Madrid and how to adapt. I’m thrilled to score goals for Real Madrid.”
“The celebration was for him. I have my own style, but I wanted to share this moment with him today. He was my idol growing up, and I’m fortunate to call him my friend now.”
The former Paris Saint-Germain star, who joined Madrid in the summer of 2024, has netted 29 goals for the club this season, tying him with Bayern Munich‘s Harry Kane for the most goals scored by a player in Europe’s top five leagues.
“I congratulate him and wish him a great start to 2026,” said Madrid manager Xabi Alonso about Mbappé, who leads LaLiga with 18 goals this season.
Jude Bellingham opened the scoring with a header in the 38th minute prior to Sevilla’s Marcão receiving a second yellow card for two reckless tackles 20 minutes before the end of the match.
The outcome remained uncertain until Mbappé sealed the win from the penalty spot after Juanlu committed a foul on Rodrygo inside the penalty area.
This victory will do little to alleviate the pressure on Alonso, as the team has been struggling despite their recent three-match winning streak.
“We recognize the current situation,” Alonso stated. “We are demanding and critical of ourselves in order to improve. We know we aren’t performing at our best, and we want to enhance our play. Winning was the priority, but certain aspects didn’t go as planned.”
Real Madrid is currently one point behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona, who will play against Villarreal on Sunday.
This report incorporates information from ESPN’s Alex Kirkland, ESPN Research, and The Associated Press.