Real Madrid escaped with three crucial points after a nervy 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alavés at the Mendizorroza Stadium on December 14, 2025. The win temporarily eased pressure on manager Xabi Alonso, who faced intense scrutiny following recent setbacks.
Real Madrid’s victory showcased their championship resilience, but also highlighted persistent issues. While individual brilliance from Mbappé and Rodrygo secured three points, the team’s collective performance left much to be desired. Xabi Alonso faces a delicate balancing act between satisfying immediate results and implementing sustainable tactical improvements.
Mbappé Returns with Bang, Ends Goal Drought Continues
Kylian Mbappé made an immediate impact after returning from injury, scoring in the 24th minute to give Real Madrid the lead. The French superstar’s 70th goal for Los Blancos came after Jude Bellingham created the opportunity following a turnover.
Match Highlights:
- 24′ GOAL – Mbappé strikes with clinical finish
- 68′ GOAL – Carlos Vicente equalizes for Alavés
- 76′ GOAL – Rodrygo breaks LaLiga drought with winner
Vicente Shocks Madrid Before Rodrygo’s Heroics
Alavés found their equalizer in the 69th minute when Vicente used excellent skill to control a through ball before beating Courtois. The goal exposed Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities and put Alonso’s position under immediate threat.
But salvation arrived from an unlikely source. Rodrygo scored his first LaLiga goal since January in the 76th minute, ending a painful drought at the perfect moment. Vinícius Júnior’s brilliant run down the left wing set up the Brazilian’s match-winning strike.
What This Victory Means for Real Madrid
Current LaLiga Standings:
- Real Madrid: 39 points (12W-3D-2L) – 2nd place
- Barcelona: 43 points – 1st place (4-point lead)
The victory keeps Madrid’s title hopes alive, though Barcelona’s four-point lead remains a significant obstacle as the season enters its crucial period. Madrid cannot afford further inconsistency if they want to challenge for the championship.
Xabi Alonso Gets Temporary Relief
Reports before kickoff suggested anything short of three points would be the final straw for Alonso. While the win provides breathing room, the unconvincing performance against a relegation-threatened side raises questions about Madrid’s form and tactics.
Key Takeaways
Mbappé’s Impact – Showed no signs of injury rust, creating constant danger
Rodrygo’s Clutch Gene – Delivered when pressure was highest
Defensive Concerns – Madrid’s backline remains vulnerable to counter-attacks
Inconsistency Issues – Performance quality doesn’t match squad expectations
Match Statistics
| Category | Alavés | Real Madrid |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 48% | 52% |
| Shots on Goal | 2 | 3 |
| Total Shots | 5 | 8 |
| Corner Kicks | 5 | 5 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 0 |
Attendance: 19,290 at Estadio de Mendizorroza
Referee: Víctor García Verdura
What’s Next for Real Madrid?
Los Blancos must quickly shift focus to upcoming fixtures. With Barcelona maintaining their lead, every point matters in the title race. Madrid’s next challenges will test whether this victory marks a turning point or merely delays the inevitable reckoning.
