Kylian Mbappe reacts to breaking Ronaldo's Real Madrid record

Kylian Mbappe has reacted to breaking the goal-scoring record of Cristiano Ronaldo at Real Madrid following his late goal on Saturday.

Kylian Mbappé paid tribute to his football hero Cristiano Ronaldo after recreating the Portuguese icon’s trademark celebration during Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Sevilla.

The French forward enjoyed a memorable birthday at the Santiago Bernabéu, getting on the scoresheet as Xabi Alonso’s side closed the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona to just one point on Saturday.

Real Madrid took the lead in the first half through Jude Bellingham before Sevilla’s hopes faded when defender Marcão was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on the England midfielder.

With the match nearing its end, Mbappé sealed the win from the penalty spot after Juanlu Sánchez fouled Rodrygo inside the area. The 27-year-old calmly sent goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos the wrong way, securing all three points for Los Blancos and piling pressure on Barcelona ahead of their trip to Villarreal.

The goal carried extra significance, as it took Mbappé to 59 goals in the calendar year — matching the club record set by Cristiano Ronaldo in 2013. To mark the moment, the Real Madrid forward celebrated with Ronaldo’s famous “Siu” gesture, a nod to the player he has long admired.

Speaking after the match, Mbappé described the achievement as special, especially in his first full year at the club.

He praised Ronaldo as the greatest player in Real Madrid’s history and explained that the celebration was a personal tribute. Mbappé added that Ronaldo has supported him since his arrival in Madrid, helping him settle in, and said their relationship has grown into a friendship.

The forward also used the occasion to send festive wishes to Madrid supporters, noting that scoring and winning on his birthday for his dream club made the night even more meaningful.

Despite equalling Ronaldo’s tally, Mbappé will not have the opportunity to surpass it this year, as the Sevilla match was Real Madrid’s final game of 2025. Alonso’s side return to action on Sunday, January 4, with an away trip to Real Betis.

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