Real Madrid Edge Osasuna as Mbappé Sparks Alonso’s Debut Win
Kylian Mbappé’s Penalty Secures Real Madrid’s Winning Start Under Xabi Alonso
Madrid, Spain (La Liga 2025/26) – Real Madrid kicked off their new La Liga season with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu. The decisive moment came from Kylian Mbappé, who converted a second-half penalty, ensuring that new coach Xabi Alonso enjoyed a winning debut in charge of Los Blancos.
Key Highlights of the Match
- Mbappé on Target: The French superstar scored the only goal of the game with a composed penalty in the second half.
- Alonso’s La Liga Debut: Xabi Alonso managed his first league game as Real Madrid’s head coach, marking it with three points.
- Osasuna’s Strong Defense: The visitors frustrated Madrid with disciplined defending and limited clear chances.
- Late Red Card: Osasuna’s Abel Bretones was sent off in the closing stages, helping Madrid secure the result.
A Night of Patience and Precision
Real Madrid started brightly, enjoying more than 65% possession in the first half. Players like Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham constantly pressed Osasuna’s backline, but the final ball was often intercepted.
Osasuna, known for their physical approach, stood firm and even threatened on the counter-attack. Goalkeeper Sergio Herrera made a couple of crucial saves to keep the scores level.
The breakthrough finally came in the 52nd minute, when Mbappé was brought down inside the box. Stepping up with confidence, he sent the goalkeeper the wrong way and celebrated his first La Liga goal of the season.
Xabi Alonso’s Dream Start
For Xabi Alonso, this match was more than just another league game – it was the beginning of a new era. Having taken over from Carlo Ancelotti, Alonso faces enormous pressure to deliver silverware.
In his post-match conference, Alonso praised the team’s patience:
“We knew Osasuna would be tough. The players showed character, controlled the game, and Mbappé’s quality made the difference.”
This win not only gave Alonso a perfect start but also hinted at how Madrid might evolve tactically under his leadership.
Mbappé Living Up to Expectations
All eyes were on Kylian Mbappé after his high-profile move to Madrid. Fans and pundits expected him to shine, and he didn’t disappoint. His pace stretched Osasuna’s defense, and his penalty demonstrated composure under pressure.
If he continues in this form, Mbappé could prove to be the missing piece in Madrid’s pursuit of domestic and European glory.
👉 For a deeper dive into Mbappé’s career and his move to Madrid, you can check this BBC Sport profile on Kylian Mbappé.
Osasuna’s Brave Resistance
Despite losing, Osasuna deserve credit. Their compact defensive structure forced Madrid to work hard for every chance. Manager Jagoba Arrasate set up his team to frustrate the home side, and it almost worked.
The red card to Abel Bretones in the 88th minute, however, killed any hopes of a late comeback.
What This Means for Real Madrid
The victory gives Madrid an early boost in their title race, especially with rivals Barcelona and Atlético Madrid also competing strongly. Every point counts in La Liga, and Alonso’s men will be eager to maintain momentum.
👉 You can read more about the current La Liga standings on the official La Liga website.
Looking Ahead
Real Madrid’s next challenge will test Alonso’s tactics further. With Mbappé already delivering, and players like Modrić, Bellingham, and Vinícius in form, fans have reason to believe this could be a very successful season.
If Madrid continue to grind out results in tough matches like these, they will be strong contenders for both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.
👉 For more detailed European football coverage, visit UEFA.com.
Conclusion
Real Madrid’s 1–0 win over Osasuna may not have been the most glamorous victory, but it was significant. Mbappé showed why he is the club’s marquee signing, and Alonso proved he can handle the pressure of the Bernabéu.
As the season unfolds, Madrid fans will be watching closely to see if this partnership of Mbappé’s brilliance and Alonso’s tactical vision can bring glory back to the capital.
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