Real Madrid steadied themselves after a turbulent spell by grinding out a narrow La Liga victory over Deportivo Alaves at Mendizorroza, a result that briefly eased the mounting pressure surrounding head coach Xabi Alonso.
While the scoreline delivered the much-needed three points, the performance once again raised questions about Los Blancos’ consistency, with Kylian Mbappe and Rodrygo providing the decisive moments in an otherwise uneven outing.
Kylian Mbappe marks return with decisive opener
After being left out of the squad for the midweek Champions League defeat against Manchester City, Mbappe returned straight into the starting XI and wasted little time making his presence felt.
The French forward opened the scoring with a moment of individual brilliance, collecting a pass from Jude Bellingham before cutting in from the left flank and curling a precise finish into the top corner past Antonio Sivera.
The goal, Kylian Mbappe’s 17th in La Liga this season, gave Real Madrid an early advantage but did little to settle the visitors. Despite controlling possession, Alonso’s side struggled to impose themselves and allowed Alaves to grow into the contest.
Alaves respond as Real Madrid falter
Real Madrid’s lack of control was punished early in the second half. Substitute Carlos Vicente brought Alaves level with a composed finish beyond Thibaut Courtois after initially being flagged offside. A VAR review confirmed Vicente was level with Antonio Rudiger, overturning the decision and igniting the home crowd.
The equaliser exposed familiar issues for Madrid, who looked vulnerable defensively and short of intensity during key phases of the match. With recent defeats still fresh, the sense of another damaging setback briefly loomed.
Rodrygo delivers crucial response
Just as pressure began to mount, Real Madrid found a way back through Rodrygo. Vinicius Junior drove aggressively into the box before cutting the ball back for his fellow Brazilian, who finished calmly from close range.
The strike marked Rodrygo’s second goal in as many matches and capped another strong week following his standout performance against Manchester City.
Jude Bellingham went close on two occasions late on as Madrid searched for breathing room, but Alaves continued to threaten until the final whistle. Ultimately, Madrid held firm to secure a vital win, even if it came without fluency.
Points gained, questions remain
The victory lifts Real Madrid to second place in the La Liga table with 39 points, four behind leaders Barcelona. Their record now stands at 12 wins, three draws, and two defeats. While the result eases some of the immediate scrutiny on Alonso, the overall display underlined that improvements are still required if Madrid are to sustain a serious title challenge.