Arda Guler stars as Real Madrid Dispatch RB Leipzig to stay perfect

Under the floodlights of the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday night, Arda Güler delivered a commanding performance as Real Madrid beat RB Leipzig 4‑1 in UEFA Champions League Matchday 3. The win extended the Spanish giants' perfect European run to three straight victories and set the tone for Sunday’s El Clásico at Camp Nou.

Guler's decisive contributions

Güler opened the scoring in the 44th minute when Federico Valverde threaded a pass into the box; his first‑time strike was saved only to fall to Bernardo Silva, who tapped home the rebound. Six minutes later he completed a tap‑in after Jude Bellingham found Kylian Mbappé, whose header was turned over the line by Güler at the back post. The Turkish midfielder’s second goal in four days followed a long‑range strike against Sevilla, underlining his growing importance in Madrid’s attack.

Leipzig's chances and Madrid's control

Leipzig created early chances down the flanks, but Madrid seized structural control before half‑time and punished the Germans on the break. Kylian Mbappé added a third in the 83rd minute, before Tidiam Gomis pulled one back for Leipzig. Summer signing Yan Diomande restored a three‑goal cushion two minutes later, volleying home Brahim Díaz’s back‑post cross.

Vinicius' muted display and Mbappé's praise

Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior, 26, struggled to find his usual spark, registering only one goal in eleven matches across all competitions. He was substituted in the 70th minute for Yan Diomande, who scored the late “bijou”. After the match, Mbappé praised Vinícius, saying “the talent is there” and urging him to stay calm and proud. José Mourinho echoed the sentiment, calling the Brazilian a great player who must keep confidence.

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Mbappé also marked his 73rd Champions League goal with a strike in the 83rd minute, reinforcing his status as a key attacker. The French captain’s contribution capped a night in which Real Madrid’s offensive channels appeared fully synchronised.

With nine points from three Champions League fixtures, Los Blancos head to Catalonia with momentum and form on their side. Their perfect European record and the fluid partnership between Güler, Valverde, Silva and Mbappé suggest a potent threat for Barcelona.

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Vinícius later posted on social media, hinting at personal reflection, but will miss the upcoming El Clásico after a four‑match league suspension. The absence adds another variable for Barcelona as they prepare to face a Madrid side riding high on a flawless European campaign.