Mbappe scores on debut as Real defeats Atalanta 2-0 in the Super Cup

Kylian Mbappe, a France striker, scored on his debut as Real Madrid defeated Atalanta 2-0 to secure the European Super Cup on Wednesday.

Federico Valverde, a Uruguayan, scored the opening goal for the European champions from close range after 59 minutes. Nine minutes later, Mbappe doubled the lead by firing the ball into the top corner from Jude Bellingham’s cross.

Real has achieved a record sixth Super Cup title, surpassing Barcelona and AC Milan, who have each won the annual match between the Champions League winners and Europa League champions five times.

Mbappe, who transferred from Paris St. Germain to Real in June, had the opportunity to score in the 15th minute; however, his initial attempt was unsuccessfully thwarted by the Atalanta defense.

After winning the Europa League, Atalanta of Italy entered their inaugural Super Cup without hesitation against their esteemed opponents.

Gian Piero Gasperini’s team gained confidence after initially resisting Real’s onslaught, and Marten de Roon’s deflected shot struck the post.

Ederson missed a long-range shot before Real custodian Thibaut Courtois saved Ademola Lookman’s strike, as Atalanta continued to create opportunities.

Rodrygo failed to capitalize on a prime opportunity for Real in the first half of stoppage time, as he directed a low pass from Vinicius Jr. that struck the bar.

Mario Pasalic attempted a header that Courtois superbly denied with his fingertips as Atalanta continued to press.

Valverde converted a precise pass from Vinicius, breaking the impasse for Carlo Ancelotti’s team.

Bellingham missed two excellent opportunities before he set up Mbappe for Real’s second goal, cutting the ball back for the Frenchman to provide a neat finish. Real could have doubled their advantage through Vinicius following a superb counter-attack.

The 25-year-old, who had previously won seven Ligue 1 titles with PSG and Monaco but had never won a European club competition, was substituted seven minutes before the end of the match.