Mbappe's 'perfect' record was ended during the El Clasico match

Kylian Mbappe's perfect penalty run was stopped by goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, denying Real Madrid an early opportunity to decide the El Clasico at the Bernabeu.

Kylian Mbappe's unbeaten run in Real Madrid colors officially came to an end. In the thrilling El Clasico at the Bernabeu, the French superstar not only scored the opening goal but also experienced a rare moment of disappointment when he failed to beat goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny from the penalty spot.

Before the match, Mbappe was in outstanding form with 16 goals for Real Madrid across all competitions. Notably, he maintained a 100% success rate from the penalty spot, scoring four penalties since the start of the season. However, that record was broken in the 52nd minute of the game.

After the referee awarded Real a penalty for Eric Garcia's handball in the box, Mbappe confidently stepped up to take it. However, his shot lacked precision, was moderately powered, and aimed favorably for the keeper. Szczesny, with excellent reflexes, dove in the right direction and used his right hand to push the ball away, surprising the Bernabeu crowd.

Szczesny's save not only prevented Barcelona from conceding a second goal but also boosted the visitors' morale. Meanwhile, Mbappe showed clear frustration as this was his first penalty miss since joining Real Madrid.

It is worth noting that the penalty decision remains controversial. Slow-motion replays showed Eric Garcia's clearance accidentally deflected off Jude Bellingham’s leg before striking the Spanish defender's hand.

Many experts believe it was an "unintentional" incident and that the referee’s decision to award Real a penalty was too harsh. Several Barcelona fans felt that "football justice" was served when Szczesny brilliantly saved Mbappe’s shot.

The match continued to be intense in the remaining time, with Real Madrid striving to protect their narrow lead while Barcelona pushed hard to equalize. Szczesny’s impressive performance helped the visitors maintain balance and forced Mbappe to wait longer to restore his perfect penalty record.

Despite missing the opportunity to extend the lead, Mbappe proved his class with a goal and numerous skillful moves that troubled Barcelona’s defense. However, the moment Szczesny denied him serves as a reminder that even the world’s best players can falter and that El Clasico is never a place for absolute perfection.