Real Madrid’s offensive juggernaut: The firepower that is beginning to strike fear | OneFootball

Real Madrid claimed a controlled yet effective 2-0 win over Girona in front of their home crowd. While the scoreline may suggest a routine victory, the match could have produced a much larger margin had Madrid been more clinical in front of goal.

The team registered a total of 22 attempts but managed to hit the target only five times.

A significant portion of those shots—12 in total—came from the attacking duo of Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe.

After what appeared to be a complicated start, the two forwards are developing into a formidable partnership that could play a key role in Real Madrid’s push for silverware as the season progresses.

The duo is growing

Despite being one of the most dangerous players on the pitch, Mbappe endured a frustrating evening in front of goal. He had six shots, three of which tested Girona’s goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga.

Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe are complimenting well. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

However, he was unable to convert any of his chances. His most promising opportunity came when he expertly controlled the ball and found himself in a favourable position, only to send his left-footed shot off target.

Even though he failed to get on the scoresheet, his influence on the game was undeniable. He created five clear chances, produced an expected goals (xG) tally of 0.93—higher than any other player on the field—and played a key role in setting up the second goal.

That decisive moment arrived in the second half during a swift counterattack. Mbappe carried the ball down the left flank and timed his pass to Vinicius perfectly.

The Brazilian forward took advantage of the opportunity, unleashing a shot that deflected off a Girona defender and found its way into the net.

Vinicius had been equally active throughout the match, attempting six shots. However, only one tested the goalkeeper, while another rattled the crossbar.

Individual strengths

Beyond their goal contributions, both players showcased their individual strengths. Vinicius completed two successful dribbles out of four attempts, while his blistering speed caused Girona’s defence constant problems.

Vinicius and Mbappe have grown into each other. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Interestingly, Mbappe recorded a higher success rate in dribbles, completing three out of five take-ons. When it came to passing, the Frenchman also had the edge, completing 91% of his passes (52 out of 57), compared to Vinicius’ 81% (29 out of 36).

At the start of the season, there were concerns about how well the two would complement each other on the pitch. Both players prefer operating from the left, and at times, they seemed to get in each other’s way.

Mbappe initially appeared uncomfortable playing as the central striker, but with time, the understanding between the two has improved significantly.

The results are now evident, with the duo having contributed a combined 45 goals this season—28 from Mbappe and 17 from Vinicius.

Additionally, they have provided 16 assists between them, with the Brazilian registering 12 and the Frenchman adding four.

Mbappe’s recent form has been outstanding, and little more could have been expected from him after his hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League. In fact, even on a night when he failed to score, his ability to impact the game was clear.