MADRID — Xabi Alonso came to the defense of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior after Mbappé opted to allow Vinícius to take a penalty kick, foregoing the chance for a hat trick, during Real Madrid’s 4-0 victory over Valencia on Saturday.
After scoring two goals—including one from the penalty spot—in the LaLiga match at Santiago Bernabéu, Mbappé had the opportunity to take another penalty before halftime but instead let Vinícius take the shot. The attempt was saved by Valencia goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala, although Jude Bellingham managed to find the net just a minute later.
– Mbappé wins Golden Boot, expresses desire for long-term Madrid stay
– Alonso addresses Vinícius’ apology amid Real Madrid controversy: ‘Subject closed’
This match marked Vinícius’ return to the Bernabéu just a week after his angry exit from the pitch during a substitution in El Clásico. “Mbappé scored another two [goals]!” Alonso remarked during his post-match press conference when asked about Mbappé’s decision to let Vinícius take the penalty. “That’s a great average. It’s another three points, which is crucial for our trophy pursuit.”
Mbappé, who earned the 2024-25 European Golden Shoe this week for his impressive performance last season, has netted 13 goals in 11 LaLiga matches this season. “We designate our penalty takers, and Kylian is my first choice,” Alonso explained. “Afterward, it’s about making decisions on the field.”
“I prefer them to score the penalties as it’s a great opportunity. Kylian successfully converted the first one, and while we wanted to score the second, it’s not a major issue.”
Vinícius recently apologized for his reaction to being substituted in the 2-1 victory over Barcelona, though he did not specify Alonso in his statement. In the match against Valencia, he was taken off in the 79th minute alongside Mbappé and this time shook hands with coach Alonso. “Vini had a very good game,” Alonso noted.