Mbappé’s Offside Struggles: Overcome the 0-4 Defeat Trauma

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Mbappé’s Offside Struggles: Overcome the 0-4 Defeat Trauma

Kylian Mbappé’s journey with Real Madrid has seen significant highs and lows, especially against FC Barcelona. On October 26, 2024, he faced his first Clasico, which turned into a disappointing chapter. The match ended with a resounding 0-4 defeat, marking one of the team’s worst performances and culminating in a record of eight offside calls against him—an unprecedented statistic for a player in the top five European leagues since 2016.

Recovery from Offside Struggles

Following that challenging game, Mbappé became the target of harsh criticism. Many questioned his ability to lead Real Madrid and thrive in high-stakes situations. However, he turned the narrative around in subsequent matches against Barcelona.

Mbappé’s Influential Role

In three encounters with Barcelona since that defeat:

Only three offside calls were issued against him.
He scored key goals that highlighted his returning form.
His performances included:

Opening the scoring in the Supercopa de España Final.
A crucial equalizer during the Copa del Rey Final.
A hat-trick in a league match, showcasing his striking prowess.

These performances reinforced his status as a vital player for Real Madrid, helping to regain the trust of both fans and analysts.

Looking Ahead to the Next Clasico

A new opportunity awaits as Real Madrid prepares for another match against Barcelona. Mbappé aims to prove he has overcome the trauma of last year’s defeat. With an impressive tally of 15 goals in 12 matches across all competitions, he enters this Clasico as a player transformed.

Strategic Importance of Mbappé

Coaches, including Xabi Alonso, recognize the importance of Mbappé in breaking through Barcelona’s defensive line. Alonso mentioned the need for tactical precision to avoid offside situations, emphasizing that Mbappé’s pace and skill are crucial for Real Madrid’s offensive strategy.

Despite the ghosts of the past, Mbappé’s ability to change the game is evident. His record of 11 goals in 8 matches against Barcelona during his time with both PSG and Real Madrid highlights his capability to perform under pressure.

Ultimately, the upcoming Clasico represents not just a game, but a chance for Mbappé to erase the painful memories of October 26. A victory would solidify his leadership role and affirm his place as a key player in Real Madrid’s pursuit of glory.