Vinícius Júnior Double Lifts Mbappé-less Real Madrid to La Liga Summit

Madrid—Real Madrid struck a decisive blow in the title race on Sunday night, climbing to the summit of La Liga after a commanding 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabéu. Leading the charge was Vinícius Júnior, who converted two penalties to help secure the win in the absence of marquee summer signing Kylian Mbappé.

The Brazilian forward’s brace proved pivotal as Los Blancos seized the league lead, showcasing squad depth despite missing their headline acquisition. The result leaves Madrid alone at the top of the table, capitalizing on rivals’ stumbles and underlining their early-season intent.

With Mbappé sidelined, teammates stepped up across the pitch, ensuring the Frenchman’s absence did not blunt the attack. The victory also delivers a psychological boost ahead of a congested fixture list, reinforcing Real Madrid’s credentials as favorites for the domestic crown.

Vinícius Júnior, already among the league’s most influential players this campaign, now has four goals in his last two league outings, a run that has coincided with Madrid’s ascent to first place. Real Sociedad, meanwhile, remain mid-table after a second consecutive defeat.