Real Madrid produced a resounding 6-1 victory over Monaco in the Champions League on Tuesday, marking a significant step in their recovery from a turbulent period. Goals from Kylian Mbappé (two), Franco Mastantuono, Jude Bellingham, and an own goal from Thilo Kehrer highlighted the win, with Vinícius Júnior contributing three assists and a stunning solo strike.
The match came days after the sacking of manager Xabi Alonso, a Copa del Rey exit, and fan protests that saw white hankies and whistles directed at the team. Vinícius, who had been criticised and subjected to abuse during Saturday's league match, delivered a superb performance. His 63rd-minute goal, a sensational shot into the top corner, drew applause from the Bernabéu, though he did not celebrate, instead returning to the centre circle with his head down.
Mbappé opened the scoring within five minutes, assisted by Mastantuono and Fede Valverde, and added a second before half-time after a flowing move involving Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler, and Vinícius. The Brazilian teed up the Frenchman, who celebrated by raising his hands in a prayer position. Bellingham completed the rout with a composed finish past the goalkeeper, celebrating with a drinking gesture referencing rumours about his personal life.
After the match, Bellingham told TNT: 'A lot of people say a lot of things. There are two ways you can take it: you can cry about it and moan or send a lawyer, or you can just roll with it and enjoy it. I know the truth.' He also acknowledged the fans' whistles on Saturday: 'It’s not the nicest thing in the world, but the fans are entitled to their opinion.' Vinícius, meanwhile, said: 'The last few days were very complicated; I don’t want to be in the spotlight for what I do off the pitch.'
