AFP, Madrid:
Kylian Mbappe struck twice as Real Madrid romped to a 4-0 win over Valencia on Saturday to move seven points clear at the top of LaLiga.
Jude Bellingham and Alvaro Carreras also scored for the rampant hosts as they racked up an easy victory ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash at Liverpool.
Vinicius started on the left of Madrid’s attack after he apologised for his high-profile sulk following his substitution in the Clasico win over Barcelona last weekend.
Madrid Coach Xabi Alonso went with arguably his strongest side, despite his team’s advantage in the table and the impending visit to Anfield.
Valencia, now winless in six league games and down in 18th, set up to defend and in the opening stages it seemed to be working.
However, Madrid were awarded a penalty after a VAR review when Eder Militao’s header hit Cesar Tarrega on the hand.
Mbappe missed from the spot against Barcelona last week but the French superstar coolly sent Valencia goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala the wrong way to put his team ahead.
It was his 12th league goal of the season, extending his reign at the head of the Spanish scoring chart.
Mbappe’s 13th was soon to follow, with Arda Guler spotting Mbappe’s dart into space at the back post and crossing for the forward to volley home.
