Deportivo Alavés vs Real Madrid – Mbappé returns from injury but nearly costs Madrid, Rodrygo saves Xabi Alonso’s job with dramatic 90th-minute winner

Deportivo Alavés vs Real Madrid delivered all the drama on Sunday evening, as Kylian Mbappé and Rodrygo fired Real Madrid to a crucial 2-1 victory at Mendizorrotza Stadium. The win provided immediate relief for manager Xabi Alonso, keeping Madrid just four points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona.

Mbappé Returns with Clinical Edge

Kylian Mbappé made his presence felt immediately upon returning from injury, breaking open the match with a composed finish in the 24th minute. The French striker had missed Madrid’s midweek Champions League encounter against Manchester City due to a minor injury, but showed no rust on Sunday.

Mbappé’s goal sparked Madrid into life after a sluggish opening period. The striker now sits at an impressive 26 goals across all competitions this season, cementing his status as one of Europe’s most prolific finishers.

Alavés Fight Back with Equalizer

Real Madrid’s dominance proved incomplete as Alavés equalized through a well-executed counter-attack that exposed Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities. The hosts pressed forward with renewed confidence, testing goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois on multiple occasions throughout the second half.

The Basque side’s comeback underscored the inconsistency plaguing Madrid’s recent form, though their brief ascendancy ultimately proved insufficient against their more resourceful visitors.

Rodrygo Clinches Victory in Tense Finale

Team	Score	Goalscorers
Alavés	1	Own source response
Real Madrid	2	Mbappé (24′), Rodrygo (90′)

Rodrygo Goes delivered the decisive blow in the 90th minute, securing one of the most important three points of Madrid’s season. The Brazilian winger’s winning goal marked his first La Liga goal since January, ending an extended drought in the Spanish top flight.

Rodrygo’s clinical finishing in the closing stages demonstrates the quality Real Madrid possesses when it matters most. The victory was anything but straightforward, but Madrid’s ability to find late winners remained their crucial advantage.

“This was a crucial result for us. We needed to respond, and the team showed character after falling behind.”

— Source reports citing Madrid’s response to pressure, following the victory

Pressure Eased on Xabi Alonso Following Vital Win

Xabi Alonso’s position as Real Madrid manager had come under intense scrutiny following a recent downturn in form and mounting losses. The Spanish coach faced critical questions about his future before this essential victory at Alavés.

This 2-1 win provides temporary relief from the mounting pressure, though Madrid’s inconsistency suggests the club faces continued challenges in their title bid. Barcelona’s four-point lead remains a significant obstacle as the season enters its crucial period.

What Does This Mean for Real Madrid’s Title Push?

Real Madrid’s victory moves them to 39 points after 17 matches, maintaining their second-place position in La Liga’s tight standings. While the win temporarily eases pressure on the club and manager, the margin behind Barcelona indicates Madrid cannot afford further lapses in consistency.

The return to form of key attacking players like Mbappé and Rodrygo provides encouragement for the weeks ahead. If Madrid can build on this result and avoid the defensive lapses that nearly cost them on Sunday, their title aspirations remain very much alive.

Sources

• Al Jazeera – Match report and final score verification
• ESPN – Game analysis and player performance ratings
• LALIGA – Official highlights and match data