Mourinho's Real Madrid spark hope with emphatic win over Real Sociedad

Real Madrid have given their supporters reason for optimism after beating Real Sociedad 4-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu, with Kylian Mbappé scoring a hat-trick.

Following a difficult 2-1 victory over Espanyol in their opening match, José Mourinho’s side produced a far more convincing performance. They were not outstanding throughout the entire game, but they showed belief, ambition and a clear desire to attack.

There were still periods when Madrid lost intensity and rhythm, but the team also displayed encouraging signs of cohesion and confidence.

Mbappé makes the difference

Mbappé was the outstanding player on the night. All three of his goals came from close range, with the France international repeatedly finding space inside the box and finishing with his usual power and precision.

His first goal came after a line-breaking pass from Fede Valverde. His second followed a clever exchange with Jude Bellingham, while Vinicius Jr provided the assist for the third.

If Mbappé continues to receive regular service from Madrid’s creative players, he could score a remarkable number of goals this season. The biggest question facing Mourinho’s team is whether the forwards can consistently play on the same wavelength.

Against Real Sociedad, that connection was finally beginning to emerge.

Bellingham remains central

Bellingham did not score, but his influence was clear throughout the match.

For the third goal, the England international was unable to find a clean shooting position, but he continued to chase the loose ball, won possession back from the visitors and supplied Vinicius. The Brazilian then created the opportunity for Mbappé to complete his hat-trick.

Mourinho appears to have decided that Bellingham will occupy the central attacking role behind the forwards. That leaves Arda Güler playing from the right, where he has less influence and sees less of the ball.

The tactical picture could change once Diomandé is fit enough to play extended minutes, but for now Mourinho seems satisfied with the structure he has established.

New signings make an impression

Mourinho selected the same starting XI that defeated Espanyol, signalling his desire to build consistency early in the season.

He also repeated his first substitution, bringing Marc Cucurella on for Carreras. Cucurella’s greater defensive reliability was clear, and he appears likely to take the starting position before long.

Denzel Dumfries continued at right-back, while Ibrahima Konaté partnered the other defenders in central defence. The new arrivals are beginning to push established players out of the team and will be determined to hold on to their places.

Defensive issues remain

Despite the emphatic scoreline, Madrid still have work to do without the ball.

Their midfield pressing was not always coordinated, and Real Sociedad exposed that weakness for their equaliser. The visitors reached Thibaut Courtois’ penalty area in just two passes, with Madrid unable to prevent the attack from developing.

The first half also featured uneven spells. Real Madrid controlled possession around the visitors’ box at times but struggled to maintain intensity and tempo for long periods.

A promising second half

The best version of Mourinho’s team appeared after the interval.

Madrid played with greater speed and depth, moved the ball more quickly and attacked the spaces behind Real Sociedad’s defence. Vinicius improved as the match went on, scoring once and creating Mbappé’s final goal.

Bellingham continued to influence the game, while Mbappé punished every opening that came his way.

The victory does not eliminate Madrid’s remaining weaknesses, but it has changed the mood around the club. Mourinho still needs to improve the team’s defensive coordination and find the best way to accommodate all of his attacking talent.

However, if Mbappé, Vinicius and Bellingham can maintain the understanding they showed at the Bernabéu, Real Madrid will have every reason to believe they can challenge for major honours.