• Kylian Mbappe equals Cristiano Ronaldo's record of 59 goals in a calendar year.
• Real Madrid beats Sevilla 2-0 in La Liga, with Jude Bellingham scoring the first goal.
• Mbappe celebrates his 27th birthday with a penalty that secured his record-tying goal.
• Real Madrid's victory keeps them in the title race, just one point behind Barcelona.
• Sevilla played with 10 men after Marcao received a red card in the second half.

Kylian Mbappe equalled Cristiano Ronaldo's club record of 59 goals in a calendar year during Real Madrid's 2-0 victory over Sevilla in La Liga on December 20. The French forward secured the milestone by converting a late penalty, marking a celebratory moment as he also turned 27 that day. Earlier in the match, Jude Bellingham put Real in front with a header, while the game was further complicated for Sevilla when Marcao received a second yellow card, leaving his team with just ten men, according to Reuters, Le Monde, and Al Jazeera.

Mbappe expressed his honor at matching Ronaldo's achievement, referring to him as "my idol, the best player in the history of Real Madrid." The striker stated, "Today, and because of the record, it’s incredible, in my first year to be able to do what Cristiano did," highlighting the significance of the record to his career, according to Reuters, Le Monde, and Al Jazeera.

Despite the victory, Real Madrid's coach Xabi Alonso acknowledged that the team needs to improve, stating they managed just three wins in the last eight matches before this game. "We've got some time now to analyze and reflect where we are now," he said, indicating ongoing challenges despite the result. This win improved Real Madrid's position in La Liga, keeping them just one point behind leaders Barcelona, who face Villarreal next, according to Reuters and Le Monde.

The match also featured crucial moments from goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who made significant saves to deny Sevilla numerous chances. In the closing minutes, Mbappe had additional opportunities, including a potential second penalty which was ruled out by VAR, leading him to settle for equaling Ronaldo’s mark. He reflected on his relationship with the Portuguese star, sharing how his celebration was a nod to "a friend now" who has always been kind to him, according to Le Monde and Al Jazeera.