Real Madrid Maintain Perfect Start: 4-1 Win Over Levante

Real Madrid continued their flawless run in LaLiga 2025-26 with a convincing 4-1 victory away at Levante in Round 6, maintaining a 6-0-0 record (six wins in six). The match at Estadi Ciutat de València offered moments of brilliance, emerging stars, tactical solidity — and lessons for both sides.

Let’s break down how the game unfolded, who shone, what it reveals about Real Madrid this season, and what Levante must do going forward.

Match Overview & Chronology of Goals

The scoring opened in the 28th minute, when Vinícius Júnior struck a spectacular goal from outside the box, putting Madrid ahead. Less than 10 minutes later, Franco Mastantuono (a young signing from River Plate) scored his first goal for the club — connecting after a swift counterattack — making it 2-0 by halftime.

Early in the second half, Etta Eyong pulled one back for Levante in the 54th minute, exploiting a deflection and catching Mumbai’s defense off guard. The momentary hope was smashed just minutes later: Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty in cheeky “Panenka” style in the 64th, and then struck again in the 66th minute after rounding the goalkeeper to make it 4-1 in quick succession.

By the final whistle, Madrid had asserted dominance, combining flair and ruthless execution.

Tactical Battle: Strategy, Execution & Moments That Mattered

Madrid’s Game Plan

1. Fast transitions & counterattacks

Madrid often absorbed initial pressure and then struck swiftly. The first two goals came from quick breaks, catching Levante’s defense out of shape. The link between Vinícius and Mastantuono in that counter was nearly flawless.

2. Midfield control and rotation

With squad depth, Xabi Alonso rotated smartly. Dani Ceballos stood out, starting and delivering tidy passing, pressing, and overall balance. Fede Valverde and Arda Güler also contributed, ensuring the attack remained fed without overexposing the back line.

3. Defensive flexibility

Álvaro Carreras, usually a fullback, played center-back and was effective. Dean Huijsen also excelled in carrying the ball forward and distributing from deeper zones.The defense rotated but maintained structure, rarely giving Levante clear routes.

4. Relentless pressure after setbacks

After conceding, Madrid didn’t sit back. They hammered forward, forced the penalty, and followed up with another goal soon after. That decisiveness deflates opponents.

Levante’s Approach & Where It Fell Short

Levante tried to press and play direct, especially after the first goal, but Madrid’s composure and ability to bypass the press exposed gaps.
When Madrid counterattacked, Levante often had too few players recovering back, giving spaces exploited by Mbappé and Vinícius.
Their defensive structure broke under fatigue. The 54th-minute goal gave hope, but two quick replies crushed momentum.
Offensive flashes were rare; they needed more from midfield pivot and wingers to create sustained threat.

Player Ratings & Standouts

Here’s a look at top performers and key ratings from the match. (Based on consensus from match reports and ratings)

Player	Team	Rating / Impact	Highlights
Vinícius Júnior	Real Madrid	~9+	Beautiful first-half strike, assisted Mastantuono, influential in attack.
Kylian Mbappé	Real Madrid	~9+	Two quickfire second-half goals (one Panenka penalty) sealed the game.
Franco Mastantuono	Real Madrid	~8+	Scored his first goal for the club; looked composed in attack.
Dani Ceballos	Real Madrid	Solid	Passed 97.8%, did the dirty work in midfield.
Álvaro Carreras & Dean Huijsen	Real Madrid	Strong	Defensive solidity with good distribution and ball movement.
Etta Eyong	Levante	Decent	Scored Levante’s lone goal.

Note: Beyond these, the supporting cast — substitutes like Jude Bellingham and Tchouaméni — helped maintain composure and control late in the match.

Key Takeaways & What This Match Means

Madrid’s Depth is Showing

Even with rotations, they didn’t drop a beat. Newer names like Mastantuono are stepping up.

Mbappé Is In Relentless Form

Scoring in rapid succession, including his signature Panenka, underscores his confidence and lethal finish.

Midfield Balance Matters

Madrid’s mix of defense, distribution, and pressing allowed them control without leaving gaps.

Consistency Under Pressure

Conceding didn’t derail Madrid. They struck back immediately — a hallmark of championship teams.

Levante Needs Adjustments

To compete in LaLiga, they must improve defensive transitions and offer more sustained offense. They can’t rely solely on individual moments.

What’s Next for Both Sides

Real Madrid remain perfect: six wins in as many matches, top of LaLiga table. They face Atlético de Madrid next — a derby where maintaining momentum will matter.
Levante must regroup. Their next fixture(s) are vital to avoid sliding toward the relegation battle zone. Balanced reinforcement and tactical tweaks will be key.