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| Kylian Mbappe, Vinícius Jr, Jude Bellingham and Valverde |
Kylian Mbappé wasted no time in announcing his arrival at Real Madrid, scoring on his debut as Los Blancos defeated Atalanta 2-0 in Warsaw to claim the UEFA Super Cup for a record-breaking sixth time. The European champions, who boast a lethal attack featuring Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Jr., made their mark early on in a highly anticipated showdown.
Your 2024 #SuperCup winners! 🏆🥳 pic.twitter.com/A3l4fkRxYo
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) August 14, 2024
Carlo Ancelotti’s side, looking dangerous from the onset, especially down the right flank with the partnership of Federico Valverde and Dani Carvajal, applied early pressure on Atalanta's defence. The Italian side, making their debut in the Super Cup, did well to withstand the heat and even posed a threat to Madrid's goal.
Gian Piero Gasperini’s men grew into the game, nearly breaking the deadlock halfway through the first half. A close call came when Marten de Roon's cross deflected off Éder Militão, only for the ball to hit the bar, leaving Madrid fans breathing a sigh of relief.
As the first half came to a close, Atalanta remained the dominant side, with Éderson missing the target narrowly. On the stroke of half-time, Rodrygo almost opened the scoring for Madrid, but his effort rattled the crossbar, ensuring the sides went into the break level at 0-0.
After the restart, Atalanta continued their attacking momentum and were only denied by a spectacular save from Thibaut Courtois, who tipped Mario Pašalić’s header wide. That crucial save swung the game in Madrid's favour, leading to a classic Real Madrid counterpunch.
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| Real Madrid |
Vinícius Jr, displaying his trademark dribbling skills, glided past a defender in the box and delivered a perfect pass for Valverde, who made no mistake tapping into an empty net. With the deadlock broken, Madrid pressed on, and moments later, Jude Bellingham’s deflected shot was miraculously saved off the line by Atalanta goalkeeper Juan Musso.
The second goal, however, was inevitable. Bellingham set up Mbappé in the box, and the French superstar coolly slotted the ball into the top corner, marking his debut in style and sealing the victory.
Veteran midfielder Luka Modrić was introduced with 15 minutes left to bring stability, and the Croat’s presence ensured Madrid saw out the match comfortably. Ancelotti’s men started the season on a high, as the Italian coach lifted the Super Cup for a record fifth time, further cementing his legacy.
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| Real Madrid |
Real Madrid’s latest triumph marks yet another chapter in their storied European history, as they continue to prove why they are the kings of the continent.
