Mbappé scores twice to give Real Madrid nervy win against Betis

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REUTERS via <a href="http://espn.go.com/" title="ESPN" class="espn_sc_byline">ESPN </a>
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September 1, 2024, 6:19 PM ET
2 min read

Kylian Mbappé's second-half brace gave Real Madrid a hard-fought 2-0 win over Real Betis on Sunday, earning the LaLiga champions their second win of the season and the France star his first goals in LaLiga since joining the reigning champions from Paris Saint-Germain.

The World Cup-winner with France had scored once already for Madrid in their UEFA Super Cup win over Atalanta, but the two against Betis were his forced in the Spanish top flight.

Madrid controlled possession but struggled against a well organised Betis defence until they finally managed to break the deadlock in the 67th minute with Mbappé striking a close-range effort from a brilliant back-heel pass by midfielder Federico Valverde.

The France captain secured the points in the 75th minute from the penalty spot after Vinicius Junior was fouled inside the box by goalkeeper Rui Silva.

Madrid moved to second in the standings with eight points, four behind leaders Barcelona.