Champions League: Kylian Mbappe Has Nightmare Performance Against Liverpool

Fifteen-time European champions Real Madrid are in unfamiliar territory, with three losses in five Champions League games leaving them 24th in the table. Their latest setback, a 2-0 defeat to Liverpool, has put their qualification hopes for the next phase in serious jeopardy.

In the competition's revamped format, the top eight teams progress directly to the last 16, while those ranked ninth to 24th face a two-legged play-off. With their current position, the defending champions face the daunting possibility of an early exit.

ExoTickets.com is the United Kingdom's deluxe source of Premier League tickets. Get your tickets now to experience the atmosphere LIVE.

Lacklustre Performances from the Stars

Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham were expected to lead Madrid’s charge, but both struggled against a dominant Liverpool side. Mbappé’s missed penalty summed up a frustrating evening, while Bellingham admitted, "Liverpool were more up for it."

Former Real Madrid midfielder Steve McManaman criticised Mbappé’s impact, saying, "We haven’t seen the best of Mbappé tonight. He flattered to deceive. Madrid are going through a rough patch, and the big players are not performing."

Mbappé’s arrival at the Bernabéu came with high expectations, but questions persist about how to maximise his potential alongside Vinícius Jr., who plays a similar role. Even in Vinícius Jr.'s absence due to injury, Mbappé failed to make his mark.

Alarming Trends for Real

This season’s struggles have exposed cracks in the Madrid machine. Three losses in five Champions League matches are as many as they suffered in their previous 24 games combined. Pundits have labelled their performances "alarming," with concerns about the team’s cohesion and the inability of their star-studded lineup to deliver.

A Long Road Ahead

Despite the setback, Real Madrid’s players remain confident. Bellingham defended his teammate, saying, "Kylian is a wonderful player... I know for sure he will produce many more big moments for this club."

However, with qualification no longer guaranteed, the pressure is mounting on Carlo Ancelotti’s side to turn their form around quickly. Anything less than a dramatic improvement could see the Champions League masters suffer an unthinkable early exit.

Madrid’s journey to retain their crown now hangs by a thread—and the clock is ticking.

Experience the thrill and atmosphere of the Premier League LIVE. Get your tickets now at www.ExoTickets.com.