🏟️ Santiago Bernabéu Hosts Xabi Alonso’s First Victory as Madrid Manager
Real Madrid kicked off their La Liga 2025/26 campaign with a narrow but crucial 1-0 win over Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu. In a match that lacked flair and attacking fluidity, it was Kylian Mbappé’s second-half penalty that proved decisive, giving Xabi Alonso his first win as head coach and setting the tone for a season of redemption.
⚡ Match Summary: Mbappé Converts, Madrid Grind Out Victory
- Final Score: Real Madrid 1–0 Osasuna
- Goal: Kylian Mbappé (51’ penalty)
- Possession: Madrid 70% – Osasuna 30%
- Shots on Target: Madrid 4 – Osasuna 0
- Red Card: Abel Bretones (Osasuna, 90’+)
Despite dominating possession and territory, Los Blancos struggled to break down a resolute Osasuna side. The breakthrough came early in the second half when Mbappé was fouled by Juan Cruz, earning a penalty which he calmly dispatched to the bottom corner.
Osasuna rarely threatened, and their hopes of a late equalizer were dashed when Abel Bretones was sent off in stoppage time for a reckless challenge.
🔍 Tactical Breakdown: Alonso’s Madrid Still Finding Their Rhythm
Under new manager Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid showed glimpses of tactical evolution. The team lined up with a fluid 4-3-3, featuring debutants Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Alvaro Carreras, while Franco Mastantuono made a lively cameo off the bench.
However, Madrid’s attacking play lacked cohesion. With Jude Bellingham sidelined until October, Alonso relied on Vinícius Jr. and Arda Güler to provide creativity, but Osasuna’s compact shape stifled most forward momentum.
Madrid’s expected goals (xG) in the first half was just 0.33 from 10 shots, highlighting their struggle to create clear-cut chances.
🏆 Redemption Season: Madrid’s Mission to Reclaim Glory
After a trophyless 2024/25 campaign, including defeats in all encounters with arch-rivals Barcelona, Real Madrid enter the new season with a point to prove. The arrival of Mbappé, Alonso’s tactical vision, and a refreshed squad signal a renewed ambition to reclaim domestic and European silverware.
Madridistas will be hoping Alonso can inject the intensity, structure, and flair that defined his playing career, and restore the club’s winning identity.
Final Word: A Win to Build On
While the performance was far from vintage, Real Madrid’s opening win provides a platform for growth. With Alonso at the helm and Mbappé leading the line, the Madridistas have reason to believe that the road back to glory has begun.
Stay tuned for more tactical breakdowns, transfer updates, and match previews as Madrid’s journey unfolds.
BangBet isn’t just a betting platform—it’s your ultimate winning partner! Enjoy the highest odds in the game, free bets, and cashback offers to keep you ahead. We reward you with lucrative bonuses and exclusive promos, while our expert predictions and betting guides help you make smarter wagers. But we go beyond just betting—we care about your psychological welfare, offering counselling and tips to keep your mind in the game. At BangBet, you don’t just bet—you win smarter, safer, and with unbeatable value! Join now and elevate your betting experience!
Bangbet More Than Win!