Real Madrid finally stopped the slide with a gritty away victory at Alavés courtesy of goals from Kylian Mbappé and Rodrygo. The victory arrived when pressure around head coach Xabi Alonso had reached uncomfortable levels.
Back-to-back defeats against Celta Vigo and Manchester City had intensified scrutiny on the 44-year-old coach. Therefore, another loss threatened to deepen the crisis and accelerate uncomfortable conversations.
Instead, Real showed resilience and control to grind through a demanding contest in Vitoria. Consequently, the victory trimmed Barcelona’s lead at the summit to four points.
The turnaround was necessary after recent stumbles disrupted an earlier advantage. Notably, Madrid were five points clear after winning El Clásico in late October. However, dropped points against Elche and Rayo Vallecano shifted momentum toward Hansi Flick’s Barcelona. As a result, the title picture tightened dramatically entering the winter stretch.
Mbappé, returning after injury, set the tone with a decisive early goal. His movement and sharpness immediately lifted Madrid’s attacking rhythm. The French captain struck in the 24th minute, finishing Jude Bellingham’s precise through ball emphatically. Mbappé’s latest effort marked his 17th league goal this season and his 70th overall for Madrid.
Alavés responded bravely and were rewarded after the interval with renewed intensity. Subsequently, the hosts capitalised on a brief lapse in Madrid’s defensive structure. Carlos Vicente equalised moments after entering, controlling Antonio Blanco’s pass before beating Thibaut Courtois. Suddenly, the contest tilted toward uncertainty once more.
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Madrid’s response shows character as Alonso breathes easier
Yet Madrid reacted with composure rather than panic by reshaping their approach in possession.
Rodrygo delivered the decisive moment, darting into space to convert Vinícius Júnior’s clever assist. Consequently, Madrid reclaimed control and protected their advantage smartly.
The final stages tested nerves, but Madrid managed the tempo and limited clear chances. Therefore, the whistle brought visible relief across the travelling contingent. The victory offers Alonso breathing space ahead of Sevilla’s visit next weekend.
Tags: Real Madrid, #ALARMD, #HalaMadrid, #LaLiga, Rodrygo, Mbappé, Carlos Vicente, Xabi Alonso, Alavés, Jude Bellingham, Antonio Blanco, Vinícius Júnior.
