VITORIA-GASTEIZ, SPAIN — The floodlights pierced through the Basque evening as Mendizorrotza Stadium buzzed with anticipation, the home faithful sensing an opportunity against the visiting giants. What unfolded was a captivating encounter that saw Real Madrid secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory over spirited Alavés, maintaining their second-place position in the league standings while the hosts remained rooted in 12th.
The decisive moments arrived in waves across an enthralling 90 minutes. Kylian Mbappé broke the deadlock in the 24th minute, rifling a right-footed shot from the centre of the box to the top right corner following a devastating fast break orchestrated by Jude Bellingham. The Frenchman's clinical finish seemed to set the tone for another routine Madrid victory. However, Carlos Vicente had other ideas, leveling the contest in the 68th minute with a perfectly placed right-footed effort to the top right corner, capitalizing on Antonio Blanco's incisive through ball. Just as the home crowd dared to dream, Rodrygo delivered the crushing blow eight minutes later, converting from close range after Vinícius Júnior's pace terrorized the Alavés defense on another lightning counter-attack.
The tactical battle showcased contrasting philosophies as Madrid's star-studded attack faced Alavés' organized defensive structure. Antonio Sivera proved the hero between the posts for the hosts, producing crucial saves to deny both Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior in the 53rd minute, while Jude Bellingham's late double chance in stoppage time required two more spectacular stops from the goalkeeper. The midfield duel between Antonio Blanco and Aurélien Tchouaméni epitomized the contest's intensity.
Despite Alavés controlling 52.1% of possession compared to Madrid's 47.9%, the visitors proved more clinical with their opportunities. Los Blancos registered 13 shots to Alavés' 6, with 6 on target compared to the hosts' 2. The corner count favored the visitors 7-5, while both teams accumulated 13 fouls each in a physical encounter that saw yellow cards for Vinícius Júnior, Ander Guevara, and Abde Rebbach.
The turning point arrived with Carlos Vicente's introduction in the 67th minute, immediately transforming Alavés' attacking threat. His equalizer sparked wild celebrations in the stands and seemed to shift momentum decisively toward the hosts. However, Madrid's quality in transition proved decisive as Vinícius Júnior's pace and Rodrygo's composure combined for the winner that silenced the passionate home support.
Looking ahead, Alavés will travel to face Osasuna on December 20, while Real Madrid host FC Twente on December 17.