Real Madrid Secures Vital Victory Against Alaves in La Liga
Real Madrid achieved a crucial victory with their win against Alaves in La Liga.
Manager Xabi Alonso faced mounting pressure following consecutive defeats to Celta Vigo and Manchester City, with a potential third loss at Alaves threatening his position as head coach.
However, the team managed to close the gap to league leaders Barcelona to four points with this hard-fought away win.
Real Madrid had been five points ahead at the top of the table after their victory over Barcelona in El Clasico at the end of October, but a series of disappointing results, including draws against Elche and Rayo Vallecano, allowed Hansi Flick's team to take the lead.
Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring in the 24th minute, netting his 17th league goal of the season by connecting with Jude Bellingham's pass and firing into the top corner.
The French captain has now scored 70 goals for Real Madrid since his arrival in July 2024.
Alaves equalized in the 68th minute when Carlos Vicente, shortly after entering the field, expertly controlled a long ball from Antonio Blanco and struck past goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
In the 76th minute, Alonso's side regained the lead when Rodrygo made a darting run into the box and finished from close range after receiving a pass from Vinicius Jr.
This result provides a much-needed boost for the beleaguered manager Alonso, as Real Madrid prepares to host Sevilla in their next league match on Saturday at 20:00 GMT.