For the net

In this seasons edition of the UEFA champions league, it looks like Real Madrid will be bowing to no one. On September 30th, they did two things.

The first thing they did was travel to Almaty to face Kairat. The second thing they did was announce their intention to recapture the Champions League title by smashing Kairat.

The night culminated in a 5-0 victory, with phenom Kylian Mbappe earning a hat-trick en route to this glossy result.

Let’s get into how this demolition unfolded, what it means, and what questions persist down below.

Match Recap

Real Madrid took the lead in the 25th minute when Mbappe converted a penalty after a foul on Franco Mastantuono.

Early in the second half, he would double this lead. This goal specifically showcased his pace and composure, after a long ball was launched from Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

In the 73rd minute, Mbappe completed his hat trick with a thunderous strike from outside the box.

Substitutes Eduardo Camavinga and Brahim Diaz would make their mark as well. Camavinga headed in Madrid’s fourth in the 83rd minute, and Diaz wrapped things up with a goal in stoppage time.

With this result, Real now sit on 6 points in this European competitions league phase after two games.

Themes and takeaways

Counting Real Madrid out of winning anything is almost never a bright idea. They are always contending, especially in Europe. The authoritative manner of this win demonstrated this philosophy perfectly.

Mbappe took centre stage (as usual). His three goal performance reinforced his role as the cutting edge of this real side. Not to mention, his goals came from different scenarios each time: A penalty, a breakaway finish, and a long-range strike. Madrid coach Xabi Alonso later remarked that Mbappe “Is decisive in practically every game”.

The goals from Camavinga and Diaz also highlighted this Madrid teams depth. Their difference making ability extends beyond their usual starters, and bleeds into their bench noticeably. I tournaments like the Champions League, this type of impact matters.

Playing in Kazakhstan (Almaty) involves a long journey, along with different climate conditions. The fact that they came and performed at such a high level speaks volumes about their professionalism and mindset.

As far as things for Kairat go, this was a harsh introduction to the League phase of this tournament. Their errors were more than punished. Their energy levels were depleted. And the gap between them and Europe’s elite was clear to anyone with eyes.

What lies ahead

With two wins from two, Real Madrid have real momentum (pun intended).

It’s obvious that they are dangerous when in full flow, and smart teams in the competition will be taking note.

Their depth showed up, their star striker delivered, and Alonso’s tactics worked brilliantly. It looks as though everything is clicking.

Areas of concern (If any)

Big wins can lull a team. Maintaining hunger for the trophy they know all too well will be key for Madrid.

Complacency must be barred from their barracks, while consistency must be let in. After all, one near-perfect game doesn’t guarantee another. Can they replicate this result against tougher opposition?

Travel and fixture congestion are also a very real thing to consider. Squad rotation must be utilized in a smart manner, and injury management must be top-notch.

Closing thoughts

I’m well aware that Madrid often does Madrid things, but this triumph/score margin still deserves to be examined.

Yes, they did face a lesser known opponent this time around. Yes, they did dominate them comprehensively (which they’re known to do).

But they did all of this in very challenging and very unique away setting.

Getting three points is usually all that matters to Real Madrid, and this game was no different. Their fans will not only savour that night, but they will meditate on it. This Champions League season will demand focus and clinical finishing, and Madrid most definitely have those necessities in their toolbox.

Mbappe remains their spearhead in those departments, so maintaining his health must be their top priority. They’ll have nothing to worry about if they do.