Mbappe proud of breaking Ronaldo’s record

Sports Desk

Kylian Mbappe equalled Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for most goals in a calendar year as Real Madrid beat Sevilla 2-0 in La Liga on Saturday. Jude Bellingham scored the other goal of the match.

French superstar Mbappe scored from the penalty spot late in the match to equal Ronaldo’s 59th goal in 2013. Earlier, Madrid had taken the lead in the first half thanks to Bellingham’s brilliant header.

The win moved Los Blancos, who are second in the points table, to one point behind leaders Barcelona. The Catalans will face Villarreal on Sunday.

Saturday was Mbappe’s 27th birthday. After touching the record, he said, “It’s an honor for me to do something like Cristiano. He’s my idol, the best player in the history of Real Madrid and one of the best in the world.”

Sevilla defender Marcao was sent off for a second yellow card in the 67th minute for a foul on Bellingham. Real increased the pressure on Sevilla, who were reduced to 10 men. The hosts were awarded a penalty when Rodrygo was fouled in the box. From there, Mbappe scored his 59th goal of the year with a perfect shot and paid tribute to Ronaldo with a trademark celebration.

“I wanted to give him a special message because he was always kind to me. He was my role model as a child, now he is my friend,” Mbappe said.