Real Madrid Dominates Bilbao in a Tactical LaLiga Showdown

Real Madrid traveled to San Mamés to face Athletic Bilbao in a high-stakes LaLiga match. From the first whistle, the game showcased technical skill, strategic maneuvers, and moments of individual brilliance. The Merengues controlled the rhythm early, while Bilbao attempted to balance defense and counterattack, making it a compelling contest.

Early Momentum: Madrid Takes the Initiative

Right from the start, Real Madrid established dominance. Their passing was sharp and purposeful, probing Bilbao’s defensive lines. By the 13th minute, the Merengues held 71% possession, demonstrating their intent to dictate play. Bilbao responded with a compact formation, looking to absorb pressure and capitalize on counterattacks when opportunities arose.

The first notable moments came quickly. Vinícius Jr. tested goalkeeper Unai Simón with a long-range effort in the 4th minute, followed by Mbappé exploiting a defensive lapse, only to be denied by Laporte on the goal line. These early attacks set the tone for a dynamic first half.

Mbappé Breaks the Deadlock

In the 6th minute, Alexander-Arnold switched play to the left, where Mbappé controlled the ball and advanced into the box. With composure, he finished to open the scoring. The goal highlighted Madrid’s tactical use of width and pace, exposing Bilbao’s stretched defensive structure and immediately shifting the momentum in favor of the visitors.

Bilbao attempted to respond with Guruzeta and Berenguer creating shots from outside the box. While Courtois successfully blocked these attempts, it was clear Bilbao were being tested by Madrid’s fluid attack, particularly Vinícius Jr., whose crossbar-striking shot in the 32nd minute underlined his threat.

Camavinga Adds Another Touch of Brilliance

The first half saw Real Madrid's combination play shine. In the 42nd minute, Bellingham’s precise pass to Alexander-Arnold resulted in a cross, with Mbappé flicking it toward the near post. Camavinga, timing his run perfectly, headed the ball into the net, extending Madrid’s lead. This moment emphasized the team’s tactical cohesion and the importance of set-piece strategies, while highlighting Camavinga’s ability to arrive in the right place at the right time.

Bilbao’s Efforts to Stay in the Game

Despite trailing, Athletic Bilbao demonstrated determination. They pressed in short bursts, utilizing quick passes and off-ball movements. Guruzeta and Berenguer had notable chances, and long-range attempts by Jauregizar challenged Courtois. However, Madrid’s defensive organization minimized danger, with Militão and Laporte effectively neutralizing Bilbao’s attacks.

Bilbao’s strategy relied on counterattacks and set pieces. Though they had possession only 29% in the first half, they managed a few threatening moments, illustrating that tactical discipline and timing could still create opportunities against Madrid’s control.

Second Half Adjustments: Fresh Legs and Strategic Moves

The second half introduced key substitutions that shifted the dynamics. Rodrygo, Brahim Díaz, and Alexander Rego entered for Real Madrid, adding pace and creativity. Bilbao countered with Guruzeta, Vesga, and Unai Gómez to inject energy and tactical flexibility.

Rodrygo’s involvement on the left offered additional width and dribbling threat, while Brahim Díaz provided incisive passing and link-up play. These changes helped Madrid maintain pressure, sustain attacks, and control midfield spaces.

Mbappé’s Long-Range Magic

In the 13th minute of the second half, Mbappé struck again with a stunning long-range goal into the top corner. This not only extended Madrid’s lead but showcased his technical skill, accuracy, and ability to create decisive moments. His movement and positioning constantly challenged Bilbao’s defenders, keeping them on the back foot.

Bilbao’s Attempts to Respond

Athletic Bilbao tried to adjust with tactical changes and increased pressure. Nico Williams delivered a dangerous cross in the 27th minute, narrowly missed by Guruzeta. The team attempted to exploit flanks and target Madrid’s defensive gaps, while Vesga and Jauregizar tested Courtois with shots from distance. Yellow cards for Berenguer and Alejandro Rego reflected Bilbao’s urgency and intensity in responding to Madrid’s dominance.

Possession and Midfield Control: Madrid’s Advantage

Real Madrid maintained 62% possession in the second half, ensuring continued control over the match tempo. Valverde and Bellingham orchestrated attacks, delivering precise passes and maintaining defensive balance. Their ability to circulate the ball and exploit spaces allowed forwards like Rodrygo and Mbappé to consistently threaten the Bilbao defense.

Madrid’s combination of width, forward runs, and midfield control made it difficult for Bilbao to create consistent scoring opportunities. The team’s substitutions ensured that pressure never waned, while Bilbao’s attempts at counterplay remained fragmented.

Key Tactical Insights

Real Madrid effectively utilized the flanks to stretch Bilbao’s defense and create attacking lanes. Bellingham and Valverde’s passing and positioning dictated pace and allowed for coordinated forward runs. Camavinga’s first-half header highlighted Madrid’s threat from set-piece situations. Mbappé’s pace and timing repeatedly exploited Bilbao’s defensive gaps.

Bilbao’s counterattacks and set-piece attempts were promising but lacked consistency. Madrid’s structured defense and disciplined spacing prevented any sustained threat.

Critical Moments Recap

00’ 2H: Second-half kickoff; Bilbao adopts a slightly more aggressive approach.
03’ 2H: Jauregizar’s long-range shot saved by Courtois.
05’ 2H: Unai Gómez’s cross blocked by Militão.
13’ 2H: Mbappé scores a sensational long-range goal.
16’ 2H: Real Madrid controls 62% possession.
25’–38’ 2H: Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz create chances; Bilbao responds with Guruzeta and Vesga attempts.
45’ 2H: Added time of three minutes; Rodrygo’s attempt for Brahim Díaz intercepted by Simón.

Final Analysis: Madrid’s Dominance and Bilbao’s Resilience

Real Madrid’s performance underlined their tactical maturity, technical prowess, and squad depth. Their ability to control possession, exploit width, and execute set-piece plays made them the superior side. Mbappé’s goals, Camavinga’s intelligent runs, and Vinícius Jr.’s constant threat were decisive factors.

Bilbao showed resilience and tactical discipline, creating sporadic threats. Their compact defense and counterattacks provided moments of excitement but were insufficient to counter Madrid’s organized strategy.

Looking Forward

For Real Madrid, the match reinforces the effectiveness of wide attacks, quick transitions, and tactical substitutions. Athletic Bilbao must focus on improving defensive coordination, closing spaces for fast forwards, and capitalizing on set-piece opportunities.

Both teams demonstrated moments of tactical brilliance and individual skill, but Madrid’s efficiency and consistency ensured a convincing performance. As LaLiga continues, this match highlights the importance of possession control, tactical discipline, and exploiting attacking opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

• Mbappé and Camavinga were decisive in scoring and playmaking.
• Real Madrid’s width and transitions consistently challenged Bilbao’s compact defense.
• Bilbao created some chances but were limited by Madrid’s defensive organization.
• Tactical substitutions sustained Madrid’s intensity throughout the second half.
• Possession and midfield control were crucial for dictating match tempo.