Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé has once again found himself at the center of criticism following Real Madrid’s 2-1 defeat to Athletic Club on La Liga matchday 16.
Mbappé was under fire last week after missing a penalty in Real Madrid’s 2-0 loss to Liverpool in the Champions League. Despite that costly miss, manager Carlo Ancelotti showed faith in the French captain by allowing him to take another penalty during Wednesday night’s match against Athletic Club.
Unfortunately, the 25-year-old failed to convert again, leaving Los Blancos trailing after Alejandro Remiro’s opening goal in the 53rd minute. Jude Bellingham managed to equalize in the 78th minute, briefly reviving hopes for the Spanish champions.
However, those celebrations were short-lived, as Gorka Guruzeta’s late strike sealed a 2-1 victory for Athletic Club. The win propelled the Basque side into the top four on the La Liga table with 29 points, five behind Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid remains four points adrift of league leaders FC Barcelona.
The defending champions will return to La Liga action on Saturday when they face Girona.
