The goals scored by Kylian Mbappé and Federico Valverde that gave Real Madrid a two-goal lead against Sevilla (4-2) were not mere flashes of brilliance or moments of inspiration. Instead, they were the result of well-rehearsed actions from training sessions. Both players stated after the match that Carlo Ancelotti and his coaching staff have been emphasizing long-range shots in practice for some time. Just as Barcelona was long synonymous with tiki-taka, Madrid might soon become recognized for their “bombardment” of opposing goalkeepers. The Uruguayan midfielder currently leads La Liga—and all of Europe’s top five leagues—in goals scored from outside the penalty area. Valverde has beaten opposing goalkeepers five times with long-range strikes this season, while Mbappé shares second place with Betis’ Lo Celso, each scoring three goals from distance.Fede Valverde has never scored a normal goal in his life pic.twitter.com/dg8Redrb15— Tequila mockingbird (@Dansnewgen) December 22, 2024 Mbappé’s output in his 15 La Liga appearances since joining Real Madrid suggests he might soon surpass the tally he achieved in France. During his time with Monaco and Paris Saint-Germain, Mbappé scored 18 goals from outside the box in 246 games. Ancelotti clearly places trust in the “cannons” in his players’ legs. “Before every match, we regularly practice shooting from these positions during training sessions—launching ‘bombs” Mbappé shared after the game against Sevilla. Advanced analytics used in La Liga revealed that the chances of scoring from Mbappé’s shooting position against Sevilla were just 6.3%. For Valverde’s strike from 35 meters, the probability was even lower—only 2.8%. “The goal was the result of a rehearsed action; the coaching staff insists on such shots” Valverde confirmed, echoing his teammate’s comments. Collectively, Real Madrid players have scored 12 goals from outside the penalty area this season. Valverde leads with five, followed by Mbappé with three, Vinícius Jr. with two, and Rodrygo and Endrick with one each.##NAJAVA_MECA_8586415##
