Real Madrid Escape Alaves With Late Rodrygo Winner In Crucial La Liga Clash

Real Madrid Escape Alaves With Late Rodrygo Winner in Crucial La Liga Clash

Real Madrid returned to winning ways in La Liga with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alaves at the Estadio de Mendizorroza. In a tense encounter that tested their resilience, goals from Kylian Mbappe and Rodrygo ensured all three points for the visitors.

The result came at a crucial moment for Real Madrid, who were under pressure following an inconsistent run of results. While the performance was not flawless, the outcome proved vital in keeping them close to the top of the La Liga table and easing some of the growing scrutiny around the team.

First Half Control Gives Real Madrid the Lead

Real Madrid began the match with a clear intent to control possession and dictate the tempo. Their midfield worked patiently to move the ball through Alaves’ defensive lines, while the front three constantly looked to exploit spaces behind the hosts’ backline.

The breakthrough arrived in the 24th minute when Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring. The forward finished confidently after a well-worked attacking move, giving Real Madrid a deserved lead. The goal reflected Madrid’s dominance during the opening phase, as they created the clearer chances and limited Alaves’ attacking threat.

Alaves attempted to respond by increasing their intensity, but Real Madrid remained largely composed before the interval. Thibaut Courtois was rarely troubled, and Madrid went into halftime with a narrow but deserved advantage.

Alaves Fight Back After the Break

The second half saw a noticeable shift in momentum as Alaves emerged with greater urgency. They pressed higher up the pitch and looked to exploit the spaces left by Real Madrid’s advanced defensive line.

Their persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Carlos Vicente found the equaliser. The forward broke in behind the Real Madrid defence and finished clinically past Courtois, bringing the home crowd back into the contest. The goal exposed some defensive vulnerabilities and briefly unsettled the visitors.

Following the equaliser, the match became more open and tense. Real Madrid struggled to regain full control, while Alaves grew in confidence and continued to push forward in search of a second goal.

Rodrygo Delivers the Decisive Moment

Just as Alaves appeared to have the momentum, Real Madrid struck decisively. In the 76th minute, Vinicius Junior delivered a precise cross from the left flank, and Rodrygo timed his run perfectly to finish and restore Madrid’s lead.

The goal proved to be the turning point. Real Madrid managed the closing stages with greater composure, slowing the tempo and limiting Alaves’ opportunities. Although there was late controversy when Vinicius Junior went down in the penalty area without a spot-kick being awarded, Madrid held firm until the final whistle.

Tactical Overview and Key Talking Points

Real Madrid showed attacking quality in decisive moments but were far from dominant throughout the match. Their struggles to maintain control after halftime highlighted ongoing issues with game management, especially when protecting a narrow lead.

Alaves, on the other hand, earned credit for their aggressive second-half approach and willingness to challenge a stronger opponent. Their equaliser came from exploiting defensive space, a recurring issue that Madrid will need to address.

The referee’s decision not to award a late penalty to Real Madrid added an element of controversy, though it did not ultimately affect the result.

Impact on La Liga Title Race

The victory moved Real Madrid to 39 points, keeping them firmly in contention near the top of the La Liga standings. With the title race remaining tight, this result could prove significant as the season progresses.

Beyond the league table, the win offered some relief to head coach Xabi Alonso, who had faced increased pressure following recent performances. While questions remain about consistency, securing three points away from home against a determined opponent was an important step forward.

Alaves remain in mid-table and can take positives from their competitive display, despite falling short against one of Spain’s top sides.

Standout Performers

Kylian Mbappe once again demonstrated his importance by opening the scoring and leading the line with confidence. Rodrygo made the decisive impact off the ball with his well-taken winner, underlining his value in crucial moments.

Vinicius Junior was influential on the wing and provided the assist for the winning goal, while Jude Bellingham played a key role in controlling midfield phases. Thibaut Courtois also contributed with important saves when required.

Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Alaves was not their most convincing display, but it was a result built on resilience and decisive attacking quality. In a demanding La Liga season, such victories often prove just as important as dominant performances.

As the pressure continues to build at the top of the table, Real Madrid will hope this result serves as a platform for improved consistency in the weeks ahead.