Real Madrid Triumphs 4-1 Over Real Sociedad Despite Key Absences
Real Madrid delivered a commanding performance on Saturday, February 14, 2026, defeating Real Sociedad 4-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu. The victory came despite the notable absence of star players Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham, showcasing the squad's depth and resilience.
Vinicius Jr. Leads the Charge with Impressive Brace
Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr. was the standout performer, scoring two crucial goals to propel Los Blancos to victory. His efforts were complemented by goals from Federico Valverde and Gonzalo Garcia, ensuring a comfortable win for the 20-time European champions. Vinicius Jr.'s recent form has been exceptional, with manager Alvaro Arbeloa praising his transformative impact on the team.
"I’ve been seeing a great Vinicius for a month now, not just in this one game. He’s been playing at a very high level, being a real game-changer," Arbeloa stated, highlighting the player's consistent excellence.
Arbeloa's Tactical Mastery and Formation Choice
Manager Alvaro Arbeloa opted for a 4-4-2 formation against Real Sociedad, a decision that paid dividends. He explained that this setup allowed the team to maintain defensive compactness while creating opportunities for swift counterattacks from the wings. Arbeloa emphasized the importance of the players' mentality and their ability to execute the game plan effectively.
"We played a great game defensively, but in the first half we also looked more fluid in the opposition’s half, with greater mobility, able to move the ball around more quickly," Arbeloa noted, per reports from Al Jazeera.
Why Kylian Mbappe Was Rested for the Match
The absence of Kylian Mbappe raised questions among fans and analysts, but Arbeloa provided a clear explanation. The French forward has been managing a minor knee issue, and the decision to rest him was purely precautionary. Arbeloa revealed that Mbappe has been dealing with this discomfort for some time, and the club did not want to risk aggravating the injury ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures.
"Mbappe has been dealing with this discomfort for quite some time. He’s putting in a huge effort every time he goes out on the pitch, and today we decided not to take any risks ahead of Tuesday. I think he’ll be available," Arbeloa said, as reported by Managing Madrid.
Fan Reactions and Broader Implications
The match sparked varied reactions from supporters, with some expressing concern over Real Madrid's reliance on Mbappe. One fan commented, "The most telling thing about this situation is that Madrid without Mbappe are a completely different team. When your squad depends that heavily on one player being fit, you do not have a squad. You have a player with ten helpers."
Others were optimistic about Mbappe's return, noting his potential impact in the Champions League clash against Benfica. This victory reinforces Real Madrid's strong position in La Liga and sets a positive tone for their European campaign.
Mbappe's Record-Chasing Form in European Competitions
Prior to this match, Kylian Mbappe had been in scintillating form, equaling records set by football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in the UEFA Champions League. In a recent game against Monaco, Mbappe scored twice in a 6-1 rout, demonstrating his critical role in Real Madrid's attacking prowess. His ability to perform at the highest level continues to draw comparisons to some of the greatest players in history.
As Real Madrid prepares for future challenges, the team's ability to adapt without key players like Mbappe and Bellingham will be crucial. With Vinicius Jr. stepping up and Arbeloa's tactical acumen, Los Blancos remain a formidable force in both domestic and international football.
