Vinicius has yet to return from injury, forcing coach Ancelotti to continue using the striker duo Mbappe – Rodrygo, while Bellingham and Valverde play supporting roles on the attacking front.

Athletic Bilbao have lost just one of their last 26 home games, giving them little cause for concern despite Real Madrid’s gradual return to form.

Both teams played quite cautiously in the first half, with almost the only noteworthy situation being Mbappe’s cancelled goal.

Rodrygo was brought down in the penalty area after a tricky dribble, which led to Mbappe, who fired past the goalkeeper. But the referee later ruled it offside and did not award Real Madrid a penalty.

Defense continued to be Real Madrid’s weak point. In the 53rd minute, Athletic Bilbao opened the scoring when Berenguer was on hand to tap in a rebound after Nico Williams’ awkward cross.

In the 68th minute, Real Madrid was awarded a penalty after Rudiger was fouled by goalkeeper Julen in the penalty area. But then on the 11m mark, Mbappe could not win.

The French superstar took the same penalty as in the loss to Liverpool a week ago. And Julen predicted and saved it successfully. Ten minutes later, Mbappe made amends with a tricky shot that goalkeeper Julen failed to catch, allowing Bellingham to swoop in and equalize 1-1.