La Liga returns with a blockbuster as Real Madrid host Osasuna in a delayed opening-round fixture at the Santiago Bernabéu. The spotlight will shine brightly on Xabi Alonso, who makes his highly anticipated managerial return to his former home ground, now in charge of Osasuna.
This encounter promises drama, storylines, and betting intrigue, making it a must-follow for fans in Kenya and across the globe.
Match News and Current Form
Real Madrid’s preseason preparations were far from ideal. Their request to postpone their league opener was rejected, leaving them with only one friendly after their 4-0 semi-final defeat to PSG in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Despite the hiccup, Madrid enters the new campaign with last season’s best home record in La Liga (W16, D1, L2) and the hunger to reclaim the Spanish crown from Barcelona, who already made a statement with a 3-0 win on opening weekend.
For Alonso’s Osasuna, the challenge is immense. They finished ninth last season, narrowly missing out on Europe due to an inferior head-to-head against Rayo Vallecano. New coach Alessio Lisci, formerly of Mirandés, inherits a squad that drew heavily on the road last season (10 away draws) but struggled for victories with just two wins.
Head-to-Head History
The stats heavily favor Madrid:
- Unbeaten in the last 20 league meetings against Osasuna (W14, D6).
- Osasuna managed draws in two of their last four visits to the Bernabéu.
The hosts have history on their side.
Hot Stats and Streaks
- Real Madrid haven’t lost a La Liga matchday one fixture in 16 seasons (W11, D5).
- Los Blancos scored two or fewer goals in seven of their last nine league games.
- Osasuna saw under 2.5 goals in 10 of their last 13 away fixtures.
- When conceding first, Osasuna drew more games (9) than any other La Liga side last season.
Key Players to Watch
- Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid): Eight goals in 11 H2Hs, including a hat-trick against Osasuna last season. He remains Madrid’s most dangerous weapon.
- Ante Budimir (Osasuna): Finished as La Liga’s third-highest scorer last season. The Croatian has a knack for scoring first in big games.
Missing players: Madrid will be without Rüdiger (suspension) plus Bellingham, Endrick, and Camavinga (injuries) – potentially weakening both defense and midfield. Osasuna have no confirmed absentees.
Prediction: Real Madrid vs Osasuna
This clash looks like a classic case of Madrid dominance tested by Osasuna’s resilience. While Los Blancos are favorites at home, Alonso’s tactical discipline and Osasuna’s tendency to force draws cannot be ignored.
- Likely outcome: Real Madrid win, but not a blowout.
- Score prediction: Real Madrid 2-0 Osasuna.
- Value bet: Under 2.5 goals – given Madrid’s attacking absentees and Osasuna’s defensive caution.
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Final Thoughts
Xabi Alonso’s return adds spice to what could otherwise look like a routine fixture for Madrid. The Bernabéu faithful will expect a statement performance, but with Osasuna’s knack for frustrating top sides, this opener could be tighter than most predict.
For Kenyan fans, this game is not just about football – it’s also a prime chance to test your betting instincts on Bangbet News, where the action continues long after the final whistle.
