Real Madrid wins second game of the season as well – Mbappé with hat-trick against Real Sociedad

Mbappé's third hat-trick in La Liga

However, it was not only the Frenchman who decided the game. In the 68th minute, Vinícius Júnior increased the lead to 4-0 after a fine combination down the left, sealing the final score. The Brazilian, who had already been one of Madrid's most consistent attacking forces last season, picked up seamlessly from where he had left off in the first league game.

Real Sociedad, who had taken to the pitch as cup winners brimming with confidence, found no answers for long stretches against the record champions' compact defensive play. Early in the second half, the visitors did manage a consolation goal to make it briefly 3-1, but the defence, marshalled by the centre-back and midfield, conceded nothing further. The performance at the Santiago Bernabéu underscored the gap in class on the night.

Sociedad powerless against Madrid defence

Federico Valverde, deployed as a driving force in central midfield, set up several attacks with vision and was involved in the build-up to Mbappé's second goal, among others. The full-backs also pushed forward with intent, allowing Real to repeatedly threaten down the wings. Sociedad, by contrast, was largely forced to react inside its own half.

With the win in its second league game, Real Madrid has sent a clear signal to its domestic rivals. However, significantly tougher tasks lie ahead in the coming weeks, including in the Champions League. Coach and squad know that maintaining their form throughout the entire season will be decisive.

Mourinho's return overshadowed by the game

Off the pitch, the weekend also made headlines: with José Mourinho's return to the Spanish league, the title race will gain an extra dose of intrigue this season. Real Sociedad, who began the campaign with the Portuguese star coach, suffered a heavy defeat precisely on his reunion with his old stamping ground.

Outlook on the coming weeks

Mbappé himself was brief but self-assured in his remarks after the game. Asked about his hat-trick, the Frenchman pointed to the team's collective performance and stressed that titles are won as a group. Real Madrid now has a short break before travelling to its next league fixture.