Madrid, Dec 21 (V7N)-Kylian Mbappé celebrated his birthday in style as Real Madrid defeated Sevilla, reducing the points gap with league leaders Barcelona in La Liga on Tuesday night.

Real Madrid entered the match with seven changes to the starting lineup but showed no lack of intensity. The game began with fast-paced attacking football from both sides, marked by frequent counterattacks.

The breakthrough came in the 38th minute, when Jude Bellingham powered home a header from a precise cross by Rodrygo, giving the Galácticos a deserved lead before halftime.

The second half saw a closely contested battle, with Sevilla pushing hard for an equalizer. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made crucial saves to deny efforts from Sánchez and Romero, while Sevilla’s goalkeeper also produced fine stops to block two attempts from Mbappé.

Sevilla’s hopes were dealt a major blow in the 68th minute when Marcos was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on Bellingham, reducing the visitors to ten men.

Taking advantage of the numerical superiority, Real Madrid sealed the victory late in the match. Mbappé converted a penalty in the 86th minute, celebrating his birthday with a goal and extending Madrid’s lead.

The win strengthens Real Madrid’s position in the title race as they continue to chase Barcelona at the top of the La Liga standings.

END/SMA/AJ