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Mbappé’s Controversial Penalty: First Goal of the Season for Real Madrid With His New No. 10
The Santiago Bernabéu erupted as Kylian Mbappé opened his scoring account for the 2025/26 season. The French star converted from the penalty spot to make it 1-0 against Osasuna, in a match marked by controversy over the decision. Beyond the debate, the goal carried symbolic weight: it was his first of the campaign wearing Real Madrid’s iconic No. 10 shirt.
A lackluster first half
Xabi Alonso’s side dominated possession in the opening 45 minutes but struggled to turn control into clear chances. Only a long-range strike from Dean Huijsen and a wayward attempt from Mbappé threatened Sergio Herrera, who looked solid between the posts.
Meanwhile, Osasuna, led by Alessio Lisci, sat deep in a compact block, closing down spaces and holding firm to take the 0-0 into halftime.
The penalty that changed the game
The decisive moment came in the 51st minute. Mbappé drove down the right and, after a sharp feint, was brought down inside the box by Juan Cruz. Referee Adrián Cordero immediately pointed to the spot, and despite heated protests from the visitors, VAR upheld the decision.

Mbappé stepped up himself and made no mistake. He sent Sergio Herrera—a keeper who had previously denied Madrid from the spot— the wrong way, celebrating with passion as he scored his first goal of the season.
A debut goal with the No. 10
Beyond the scoreboard, the strike had special meaning: it was Mbappé’s first goal wearing Real Madrid’s legendary No. 10, a number steeped in history at the club. After a quiet first half, the Frenchman delivered in the decisive moment, opening his tally for the campaign and reaffirming his role as leader of Xabi Alonso’s new project.
With the Bernabéu packed to the rafters, the forward sparked excitement among Madridistas, making it clear that this season he intends to be the team’s offensive talisman. The controversy soon faded into the background as Kylian Mbappé began writing his Real Madrid story with the No. 10 on his back.
