Mbappe Returns as Real Madrid Edge Alaves
Real Madrid produced a tense 2-1 victory away at Alaves, a result that could have a significant impact on the job security of coach Xabi Alonso. The match saw Kylian Mbappe make a crucial return to action for the visitors, while Rodrygo Goes added a late second that sealed the win amid mounting pressure on Alonso after recent inconsistent results.
Mbappe’s Impact and the Road to Victory
From the opening whistle, Madrid looked keen to assert themselves, leveraging Mbappe’s pace and movement to stretch the Alaves defense. The French forward, returning from a period of rest, immediately provided a focal point in attack, stretching play and creating spaces for Rodrygo to exploit. The duo linked up with increasing chemistry as the game progressed, culminating in a decisive moment that underlined Madrid’s need for a title-chasing threat in attack.
Rodrygo Rockets Madrid Ahead
Rodrygo’s contribution proved decisive. He found the net in a critical phase of the match, giving Madrid a lead that the home side would chase for the remainder of the afternoon. The Brazilian winger has emerged as a trusted talisman for Madrid this season, and his clinical finish reinforced the importance of depth in Real’s forward line when the pressure is at its peak.
Alaves Too Lively for Comfort
Alaves did not roll over. They pressed high and tested Madrid’s fragile confidence with a series of dangerous counters and set-piece opportunities. The Basque outfit’s resilience reminded everyone that the league race remains open and that Madrid cannot coast through fixtures, even away from home. The hosts equalized at one stage, setting up a nervy finish that Mbappe helped to calm with his presence and experience.
Pressure on Xabi Alonso and Madrid’s Title Ambitions
Madrid’s position in the league table—closing in on leaders Barcelona—has intensified scrutiny on Alonso. A run of results with little margin for error has put many pundits and fans on alert about the Spaniard’s long-term plans. This win, earned in tricky circumstances, offers a glimmer of relief for Alonso and the club, suggesting that the team can still deliver when it matters most. The result also keeps Madrid within striking distance of Barcelona, narrowing the gap to a more manageable four points, depending on other results this weekend.
The Tactical Narrative
Coach Alonso has spent portions of the season fiddling with formations and personnel to balance attack and defense, especially behind a high-intensity frontline. Mbappe’s ability to influence both build-up play and finishing makes him a valuable asset, and his integration with Rodrygo is a glimpse of Madrid’s potential optimizations. The manager’s decision to bring Mbappe back into the fold appears vindicated this afternoon, as the French forward contributed to the structure and tempo required to secure the win.
What This Means Ahead
With the title race intensifying, Madrid’s victory at Alaves could be a turning point for Alonso, providing a tangible result to rally behind. For Barcelona, who maintain a lead at the summit, every fixture now holds extra significance as the season nears its climax. Real Madrid’s next challenges will test whether this performance is a watershed moment or a momentary resurgence amid a long campaign.
Bottom Line
Mbappe’s return energized Real Madrid, while Rodrygo’s decisive strike sealed a hard-fought win at Alaves. As the pressure around Xabi Alonso persists, this result provides a much-needed lift and keeps Madrid firmly in the frame as the title race develops—an outcome that could influence boardroom discussions and fan sentiment in equal measure.
