Kylian Mbappe says missed chances against Real Betis will not be repeated before Inter Milan test

Kylian Mbappe says he does not expect to waste as many chances again after Real Madrid’s match against Real Betis, as he prepares for Tuesday’s Champions League meeting with Inter Milan.

The France forward admitted he was frustrated by his finishing in the goalless game, but defended the team’s overall performance and said Real Madrid created enough opportunities to win.

“What was the reason for the setback against Real Betis? Scoring goals. I think we played very well and created many chances, but we did not score. Personally, I missed a lot of opportunities, and if we play like that throughout the season, I think we will have a great season. I do not think I will miss that number of chances in other matches,” Mbappe told beIN SPORTS.

“Those things can happen, but looking at the team’s overall performance, I think it was good. We did not allow the opponents to create chances and we performed well, even though we did not do the most important thing in football, which is scoring goals.”

Mbappe was speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s opening Champions League match of the season, with Inter Milan visiting on Tuesday. He said the players were focused on securing three points at home rather than making wider predictions about the campaign.

“Do you think this is Real Madrid’s year? First, I think we have to think about each match separately and what we can do to win every game. Now we have a home match in the Champions League against a big team. We are happy to have the opportunity to play these kinds of matches and we will continue working in this way.”

The forward was also asked whether the mentality changes when Real Madrid compete in the Champions League instead of La Liga.

“I do not know. They are two different competitions, and here at Real Madrid you always have to win.”

Mbappe’s interview was promoted by beIN SPORTS as an exclusive discussion in which he spoke about his hopes of combining collective success with individual awards this season.

Mbappe praises Mourinho’s influence

Mbappe was also asked why he had said early last season that he wanted to be coached by Mourinho. He pointed to the Portuguese manager’s record and personality.

“Why did you say early last season that you wanted Mourinho to coach you? Because he is someone who knows how to win. He has won everywhere he has worked. He is a major figure in the world of football and in players’ careers. You need to win, but you also need a lot of ambition, enthusiasm and excitement, and he brings all of that with him.”

Asked what had changed in Mourinho’s character since his arrival at Real Madrid, Mbappe said the focus should be on the qualities the manager brings rather than on how he may have changed.

“I do not think we should think about what has changed or what has not changed, but about what he does and what he has added. He gives the players a lot of confidence and stability. He is very direct and says things as they are. When you are at this level, you do not need compliments or for someone to tell you that you are the best or that you are not the best.”

Mbappe was finally asked about Mourinho’s insistence that forwards contribute defensively. The striker said the coach demanded a wide range of responsibilities from his players.

“I do not know. Mourinho insists on many things. He insists on scoring goals because that is the most important thing. He also insists on defending and keeping the team compact. He focuses on many things because he is the coach.”

Real Madrid will now turn their attention to the visit of Inter Milan, with Mbappe hoping his wastefulness against Real Betis proves an isolated incident rather than a recurring problem.