Kylian Mbappe suffers injury scare as Real Madrid draw with Real Betis
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe asked to be substituted with a suspected hamstring injury during a 1-1 draw against Real Betis that severely dents the club’s LaLiga title hopes.
The French World Cup winner was withdrawn in the 81st minute after feeling discomfort and headed straight down the tunnel at La Cartuja.
Head coach Alvaro Arbeloa confirmed the substitution was precautionary, with Spanish media reporting a potential issue in his left leg.
Further medical tests are scheduled for Saturday to determine the full extent of the damage.
He felt some discomfort. We’ll see how he evolves over the next few days.
Alvaro Arbeloa
Late heartbreak for Los Blancos
The injury scare compounded a highly frustrating evening for the visitors in Seville.
Vinicius Junior had initially fired the reigning European champions into an early lead after just 17 minutes.
However, Hector Bellerin struck a 94th-minute equaliser to snatch a dramatic point for the hosts.
The result leaves Arbeloa’s squad trailing league leaders Barcelona by eight points, with the Catalan side holding a game in hand.
World Cup preparations loom
Any prolonged absence for the 25-year-old would be a significant blow to both his club and country.
The prolific striker has been in scintillating domestic form, netting 24 times in 28 league appearances this campaign.
France will also be monitoring the medical reports closely ahead of their World Cup opener against Senegal on 16 June.
Meanwhile, a depleted Madrid squad must regroup for their next fixture against Espanyol before a crucial Clasico showdown.
Penalty controversy adds to woes
The Spanish giants have now secured victory in just one of their last six matches across all competitions.
Their latest setback was not without controversy, as officials waved away late appeals for a handball against Betis defender Ricardo Rodriguez.
It’s a clear penalty, with the arm out. There isn’t much else to see, it’s very clear… They’re decisions that affect the game a lot.
Alvaro Arbeloa
