This loss ended Los Blancos’ impressive 21-game unbeaten run away from home in La Liga and extended their gap to four points behind league leaders Barcelona, undoing their recent progress.
Athletic Bilbao took the lead in the second half through Álex Berenguer, exploiting Real Madrid’s defensive weaknesses. Madrid had an opportunity to equalize when awarded a penalty, but Mbappé’s attempt was saved by Bilbao goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala, repeating his miss from the previous week’s match against Liverpool.
Jude Bellingham eventually leveled the match in the 79th minute with his fourth goal in as many games, but a costly defensive blunder by Fede Valverde allowed Gorka Guruzeta to score the winner for Bilbao.
Bellingham Should Take Real Madrid’s Penalties
Mbappé’s penalty struggles have become a recurring issue. After his critical miss against Liverpool, his latest penalty against Bilbao lacked both power and accuracy, drawing significant criticism. Jude Bellingham, who successfully converted a penalty against Getafe, has shown the composure needed for such situations.
Though Carlo Ancelotti has said that players decide who takes penalties, he may need to intervene. Until Vinícius Júnior returns, Bellingham should be the obvious choice for penalty duty.
Mbappé’s lack of confidence is becoming a worrying trend for a player of his caliber and price. His missed opportunities, like the one against Bilbao, add to the pressure on him and could affect Real Madrid’s title hopes.
Real Madrid’s Defensive Weaknesses Exposed
Athletic Bilbao took advantage of Real Madrid’s defensive frailties, particularly during counter-attacks. Fran García and Lucas Vázquez left gaps on the wings, allowing the Williams brothers to cause problems. Madrid’s midfielders, including Bellingham and Valverde, had to cover defensively, limiting their attacking contributions. Valverde’s defensive responsibilities ultimately led to the error that handed Bilbao the decisive goal.
Tchouaméni’s Disappointing Return
Aurélien Tchouaméni made his return after a month-long injury layoff but struggled to make an impact. Expected to shore up Madrid’s midfield defensively, Tchouaméni was largely ineffective, with Bilbao bypassing him regularly. Bellingham and Valverde were forced to do much of the defensive work, highlighting Tchouaméni’s underperformance.
This defeat raises doubts about Real Madrid’s title prospects, with key players failing to perform in critical moments.
