Kylian Mbappé Matches Cristiano Ronaldo’s Historic Real Madrid Record With Dramatic Goal

Kylian Mbappé has equaled a historic Real Madrid goalscoring record. The French superstar netted his 59th goal of 2025 in a 2-0 win over Sevilla. The late penalty on December 20 tied Cristiano Ronaldo’s club record for most goals in a calendar year. The match took place at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

This achievement marks a monumental moment in Mbappé’s debut year with the club. According to Sports Illustrated, Ronaldo’s benchmark of 59 goals from 2013 had stood unbroken for over a decade. Mbappé reached the tally on his 27th birthday, cementing his legendary status early in his Madrid career.

Decade-Old Benchmark Finally Equaled in Dramatic Fashion

Mbappé entered the match needing one goal to draw level with Ronaldo. He took nine shots throughout the game but was repeatedly denied. The decisive moment came in the 86th minute when teammate Rodrygo won a penalty.

Mbappé calmly converted the spot-kick to secure the win and make history. His 59 goals this year were split between the end of last season and the current campaign under manager Xabi Alonso. The forward now leads all Real Madrid players in scoring for the 2025-26 season.

This record chase underscores his immediate impact. He has far outpaced other attackers like Vinícius Júnior in the current campaign. The data shows Ronaldo dominated the top of this list for years, making Mbappé’s feat even more significant.

A Fitting Tribute to a Childhood Idol

After scoring the record-tying goal, Mbappé paid direct homage to Ronaldo. He performed the Portuguese icon’s famous “Siu” celebration in front of the Bernabéu crowd. The gesture connected the past and present of the club’s attacking legacy.

In post-match comments, Mbappé called Ronaldo his idol and a friend. He acknowledged Ronaldo’s status as the greatest player in the club’s history. This show of respect highlighted the personal significance of the milestone for the French captain.

The team now enters a short winter break. They will resume play against Real Betis on January 4. Mbappé has pledged to continue fighting for the club’s badge and its illustrious history in the new year.

Mbappé’s incredible 2025 has rewritten Real Madrid’s history books. His record-tying performance solidifies his place among the club’s all-time greats. The football world now watches to see if he will claim the record outright in the coming season.

Thought you’d like to know-

Did Kylian Mbappé break Ronaldo’s record?

No, he equaled it. Mbappé scored his 59th goal of 2025, matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s total from the 2013 calendar year. He needed two goals against Sevilla to break it but scored once.

What was Ronaldo’s record for Real Madrid?

Cristiano Ronaldo scored 59 goals for Real Madrid in the 2013 calendar year. That specific yearly tally had been the club’s highest for over twelve years before Mbappé matched it.

How did Mbappé celebrate the goal?

He honored Cristiano Ronaldo by performing his iconic “Siu” celebration. Mbappé later said the celebration was a dedicated tribute to his idol and hero.

What happens to the record now?

The record is now jointly held by both players. Mbappé will have his first chance to break the record and hold it alone when the 2026 calendar year begins.

How many goals does Mbappé have this season?

Of his 59 total goals in 2025, 29 have been scored in the current 2025-26 season under coach Xabi Alonso. He is the team’s leading scorer in both La Liga and the Champions League.