Real Madrid Secure Vital Win at Alaves: Easing Pressure on Xabi Alonso

Published on December 14, 2025

Introduction

In a pivotal La Liga encounter, Real Madrid secured a much-needed victory against Alaves, providing a temporary respite for embattled manager Xabi Alonso. This article delves into the match’s key moments, the tactical nuances, and the broader implications for Real Madrid’s season. We’ll explore how this win impacts Alonso’s tenure, the standout performances, and what lies ahead for Los Blancos in their quest for domestic and European glory.

Key Points

Crucial Victory: Real Madrid’s 2-1 win at Alaves eases mounting pressure on manager Xabi Alonso.
Mbappé’s Brilliance: Kylian Mbappé continues his stellar form, netting his 17th league goal of the season.
Alaves’ Resilience: Carlos Vicente’s equalizer showcased Alaves’ determination, but Rodrygo’s late winner sealed the deal for Madrid.
League Standings: The victory reduces the gap to league leaders Barcelona to just four points.
Upcoming Fixtures: Real Madrid prepare to host Sevilla in their next La Liga challenge.

Background

The Build-Up to the Match

Real Madrid entered the match under significant scrutiny following a string of lackluster performances. Back-to-back defeats against Celta Vigo and Manchester City had intensified criticism of Xabi Alonso’s managerial tactics. A third consecutive loss at Alaves could have spelled the end of Alonso’s tenure, making this fixture a must-win scenario for the Spanish giants.

Recent Form and Standings

Earlier in the season, Real Madrid enjoyed a five-point lead at the top of La Liga after a memorable victory over Barcelona in El Clásico. However, a series of draws against Elche and Rayo Vallecano, coupled with Barcelona’s resurgence under Hansi Flick, saw the Catalans overtake Los Blancos in the standings. This context underscored the importance of securing all three points at Mendizorroza Stadium.

Analysis

Tactical Overview

Xabi Alonso opted for an attacking lineup, deploying Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Jr. as the primary offensive threats. The midfield trio of Jude Bellingham, Toni Kroos, and Federico Valverde provided the necessary creativity and control, aiming to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of the game.

First Half: Mbappé’s Early Strike

The breakthrough came in the 24th minute when Jude Bellingham delivered a precise cross to Kylian Mbappé. The French captain, demonstrating his clinical finishing, fired the ball into the top corner, giving Real Madrid a crucial 1-0 lead. This goal marked Mbappé’s 17th league goal of the campaign and his 70th overall for Real Madrid since his high-profile transfer in July 2024.

Second Half: Alaves’ Response and Madrid’s Resilience

Alaves, however, refused to capitulate. In the 68th minute, substitute Carlos Vicente capitalized on a well-weighted pass from Antonio Blanco, expertly controlling the ball and firing past Thibaut Courtois to level the scores. This equalizer injected a renewed sense of urgency into the match, testing Real Madrid’s mental fortitude.

Real Madrid’s response was swift and decisive. In the 76th minute, Rodrygo made a darting run into the box, latching onto a pinpoint cross from Vinicius Jr. and slotting the ball home from close range. This goal restored Madrid’s lead and ultimately secured the three points, highlighting the team’s ability to perform under pressure.

Practical Advice

Lessons for Aspiring Managers

Xabi Alonso’s experience offers valuable insights for aspiring football managers. Handling pressure, maintaining player morale, and making tactical adjustments are crucial skills. Alonso’s ability to rally his team after consecutive defeats demonstrates the importance of resilience and strategic planning in high-stakes environments.

Key Takeaways for Fans

Consistency is Key: Even top teams face challenges; maintaining consistency is vital for long-term success.
Player Form: Monitoring the form of key players like Mbappé and Vinicius Jr. can provide insights into a team’s potential performance.
Tactical Flexibility: Successful managers must be adaptable, adjusting their strategies based on the opposition and match circumstances.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was this match crucial for Xabi Alonso?
This match was crucial for Xabi Alonso due to the mounting pressure following back-to-back defeats. A third consecutive loss could have led to his dismissal, making the victory at Alaves essential for his continued tenure.

How has Kylian Mbappé performed this season?
Kylian Mbappé has been in exceptional form, scoring 17 league goals this season and reaching a total of 70 goals for Real Madrid since his transfer in July 2024. His performance has been a significant factor in Madrid’s campaign.

What are the implications of this win for Real Madrid’s title hopes?
The win reduces the gap to league leaders Barcelona to four points, keeping Real Madrid firmly in the title race. It also boosts the team’s morale and provides momentum for upcoming fixtures.

Who were the standout performers in the match?
Kylian Mbappé, with his goal and overall performance, was a standout performer. Additionally, Rodrygo’s winning goal and Vinicius Jr.’s assist were crucial contributions to the victory.

What is next for Real Madrid in La Liga?
Real Madrid’s next challenge in La Liga is a home fixture against Sevilla, scheduled for Saturday at 20:00 GMT. This match will be another test of their title credentials.

Conclusion

Real Madrid’s hard-fought victory at Alaves provides a much-needed reprieve for Xabi Alonso and reignites their La Liga title aspirations. The match highlighted the team’s resilience, the individual brilliance of players like Kylian Mbappé and Rodrygo, and the tactical acumen of Alonso. As the season progresses, maintaining consistency and building on this performance will be crucial for Real Madrid’s success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Los Blancos prepare to face Sevilla in their next league encounter.