Rodrygo Secures Real Madrid Victory Over Alaves, Ends Poor Run

Rodrygo’s late goal gave Real Madrid a 2-1 win over Deportivo Alaves on Sunday in LaLiga, snapping a run of poor form and keeping them four points behind leaders Barcelona. The victory marked a crucial result for Real, who had suffered back-to-back defeats across all competitions and were under mounting pressure.

Real took the lead in the 24th minute through Kylian Mbappe, who struck in trademark fashion after receiving a long pass from Jude Bellingham. The French forward ran down the left flank, cut inside, and unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner from the edge of the box, giving Real an early advantage.

Alaves, however, grew into the match and maintained strong pressure on Real’s defense. The Madrid side fielded a makeshift backline, featuring 19-year-old academy graduate Victor Valdepenas in his senior debut at left back, which Alaves targeted relentlessly. Their efforts paid off in the 68th minute when substitute Carlos Vicente latched onto a long ball from Antonio Blanco, outran Real’s high defensive line, and slotted the ball into the top corner. Initially ruled offside, the goal was confirmed after a VAR review showed Vicente had timed his run correctly.

Real responded quickly, regaining the lead in the 76th minute through a swift counter-attack. Vinicius Jr maneuvered past a defender on the left flank and delivered a low cross into the box, where Rodrygo finished from close range, securing the decisive goal and ensuring all three points for Madrid.

The victory moves Real Madrid to second in the league standings with 39 points, keeping them within striking distance of Barcelona, while Alaves remain 12th with 18 points. The result also provides manager Xabi Alonso with some relief after a mixed run of form, with just two wins from their previous eight matches across competitions.

Alonso praised his team’s determination in a post-match press conference. “It was a tough, very competitive match,” he said. “We started well and took the lead, but then we lost control and conceded from the only mistake Valdepenas made, which Carlos Vicente capitalized on. The team continued to fight hard, and the second goal gave us the three points. We’re leaving here very happy.”

Despite the win, the match exposed Real Madrid’s vulnerabilities, particularly in defense. Alaves dominated portions of the game and tested the young defenders repeatedly, highlighting areas Real will need to address as the season progresses.

The victory, however, underscores Real Madrid’s resilience, with key players such as Mbappe, Vinicius, and Rodrygo stepping up at critical moments to secure the result in a challenging Basque Country encounter.