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Mbappé Shines as Real Madrid Edges Talavera 3-2

12/18/2025

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Summary

Mbappé Scores Twice

Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid) scored twice, including a 41st-minute penalty and a late strike, as Real Madrid beat Talavera 3-2 in the Copa del Rey.
Nahuel Arroyo and Gonzalo Di Renzo scored for Talavera as the visitors fought back and nearly forced extra time.
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso faced scrutiny after the match.
He urged a stronger performance ahead of the league game against Sevilla.

History

Historical Context

The Copa del Rey, founded in 1903, emerged from a tournament proposed to celebrate King Alfonso XIII's coronation. Athletic Bilbao's victory over FC Barcelona in the inaugural match marked the beginning of a prestigious competition, which has seen Barcelona win 32 titles and Real Madrid 20 by 2023. The tournament remains central to Spanish football culture, reflecting the sport's deep-rooted significance in the nation.

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Mbappé Scores Twice

Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid) scored twice, including a 41st-minute penalty and a late strike, as Real Madrid beat Talavera 3-2 in the Copa del Rey.
Nahuel Arroyo and Gonzalo Di Renzo scored for Talavera as the visitors fought back and nearly forced extra time.
Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso faced scrutiny after the match.
He urged a stronger performance ahead of the league game against Sevilla.

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