Rodrygo’s Late Winner Saves Real Madrid in Vital La Liga Victory Over Alavés

Real Madrid secured a crucial 2-1 win against Deportivo Alavés on Sunday. The tense match took place at the Mendizorroza Stadium in Vitoria-Gasteiz. A late strike from Brazilian forward Rodrygo sealed the three points for the visiting side.

Rodrygo late winner

This victory was desperately needed for manager Xabi Alonso’s squad. According to Reuters, the team had dropped points in six of its previous eight league matches. The win keeps pressure on league leaders Barcelona in the title race.

Match Analysis: Individual Brilliance Overcomes Persistent Issues

The game followed a frustratingly familiar pattern for Real Madrid this season. Kylian Mbappé, returning from injury, opened the scoring in the first half with a superb individual effort. His pace and finish were a reminder of his world-class quality.

Yet Madrid’s defensive fragility surfaced again after the break. A simple ball over the top caught the backline out, allowing Carlos Vicente to equalize for Alavés. For a moment, it seemed Madrid’s poor run would continue.

The winner came from a moment of magic. Vinicius Junior, quiet for most of the evening, exploded down the left flank. His driven cross found Rodrygo, who scored his first league goal since January. It was a victory earned through sheer individual talent.

Broader Implications for the La Liga Title Race

This result provides a temporary reprieve for manager Xabi Alonso. The pressure at the Bernabéu is immense, and another stumble could have been catastrophic. The win narrows the gap to Barcelona, though the Catalans still hold a four-point advantage.

For the players, it reinforces a concerning reliance on star power. The team’s structured build-up play often lacks creativity, a problem noted by analysts. Winning while playing poorly is a trait of champions, but it is not a sustainable long-term strategy.

Fans will celebrate the result but remain worried. The defensive errors and stagnant attacking phases are clear weaknesses. The title race remains tight, and Madrid must find more consistent form to overtake their rivals.

This dramatic La Liga clash was ultimately decided by Rodrygo’s late heroics. Real Madrid lives to fight another day in the championship battle, but fundamental questions about the team’s performance linger.

Info at your fingertips

Who scored the winning goal for Real Madrid?

Brazilian forward Rodrygo scored the decisive goal in the 76th minute. He was set up by a powerful run and cross from compatriot Vinicius Junior. It was his first La Liga goal in nearly a year.

How does this result affect the La Liga title race?

Real Madrid temporarily closes the gap to first-place Barcelona to four points. Every point is critical as the season enters its final months. The title race is expected to remain extremely tight.

Was Kylian Mbappé injured for this match?

No, Mbappé returned to the starting lineup after recovering from a recent injury. He marked his return by scoring Real Madrid’s opening goal in the first half of the match.

Why was there so much pressure on Real Madrid for this game?

The team had been in poor league form, winning only once in their previous five matches. Another failure to win would have severely damaged their title hopes and increased scrutiny on the manager.

Which player was named Man of the Match?

English midfielder Jude Bellingham was a standout performer. His vision and passing were instrumental, including the assist for Mbappé’s opening goal, driving his team forward throughout.