MADRID, SEPT 18 — Kylian Mbappé began his pursuit of a European title by scoring for Real Madrid in his first Champions League game with the club.
Mbappé scored from Rodrygo’s cross just seconds into the second half as Madrid won 3-1 against Stuttgart at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
“It was a great night,” said Mbappé. “It is a difficult game, because they are always in the Champions League, but it is important to start with a win at home,” he said.
Mbappé celebrated with a gesture in which he appeared to blow out a candle and send a kiss. Spanish media said it was in honor of his mother’s 50th birthday.
The goal gave defending champions Madrid a 1-0 lead before Stuttgart equalized through Deniz Undav in the 68th minute. Antonio Rüdiger put Madrid back in front in the 83rd minute and substitute Endrick sealed the deal in stoppage time to seal victory for the defending champions.
It was Mbappé’s 49th Champions League goal, putting him in the top 10 of all-time scorers in the competition.
He has scored in three consecutive games and has five goals in seven games for Madrid so far in all competitions.
“I can do more,” said Mbappé. “I feel better match after match.”
Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was named man of the match as he was key in preventing Stuttgart from capitalizing on many scoring opportunities. – AP
