France Captain Kylan Mbappé showed his focus remains as high as ever after netting his eighth goal of the season for Real Madrid, who clipped Celta Vigo 2-1 to keep the La Liga title chase close on Saturday.

Mbappé, who has been forced to shut down reports of alleged suspicions of sexual assault claims over the past week, made the biggest statement with a wonder goal to open Madrid’s account in the fixture.

The striker showed alertness and confidence to capitalise on a Celta Vigo turnover just outside of the 18-yard box before launching a rocket from 22 yards out, leaving the keeper a spectator as the ball whizzed into the back of his net in the 20th minute.

That goal, Mbappé’s eighth in seven games, for Real marked a strong return to club action following the international break this week.

Vinicius Jr secured victory for Madrid after scoring with a 60th-minute strike to restore their advantage after a 51st-minute Williot Swedberg equaliser.

Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti praised Mbappé’s form after the game, noting that he “looks completely different, fresh, he’s almost like a new player after two weeks break”, Ancelotti said speaking to the media, as per Fabrizio Romano.

The win sees Real join leaders Barcelona, who have a game in hand on 24 points as the La Liga square-off continues between the rivals.