Goals from Kylian Mbappe and Rodrygo Goes gave Xabi's project a boost Alonso at Real Madrid, nursing an injury before facing Alaves, struggled and played inconsistent football, but it was enough to secure a 2-1 victory at Mendizorroza and remain four points behind league leaders Barcelona. The win allowed the Whites to stay in the LaLiga title race, although the feeling is still far from convincing. While Hansi Flick's Barcelona advances with a relentless pace, Real Madrid continues to navigate doubts, individual dependence, and a style of play that has yet to solidify. Barcelona presses on and Real Madrid fails to convince. While the Blaugrana march forward with confidence, Real Madrid's doubts persist. Hansi Flick's men, after their victory against Osasuna (2-0), have now won seven consecutive matches. Xabi Alonso's side, before the opening whistle at Mendizorroza, had only won one of their last five games. The contrast is evident. Recent results, coupled with European setbacks, have placed the Real Madrid manager under constant pressure, with every match becoming an exam.

Mendizorroza, an exam for Xabi Alonso

These results, plus the defeats against Liverpool and Manchester City in the Champions League, generated many doubts about a manager who is now under intense scrutiny. Therefore, Mendizorroza, for many, was seen as a referendum on Xabi Alonso, who passed the test by a narrow margin and with a less than flattering image.

Real Madrid survived thanks to specific plays and the talent of its stars. The script repeated itself: little control of the game, but effectiveness in key moments.

Mbappe leads the way and Rodrygo rescues Madrid

Four were their saviors, and in practically isolated plays: Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Mbappe, and Rodrygo. The first two were the instigators. The last two were the finishers.The French striker made his debut with an exceptional goal after capitalizing on a pass from Bellingham: a run, a shot, and a fantastic goal, his 17th in La Liga.

Alaves' scare and the final blow

However, the relief was short-lived. The team switched off again after the break and paid dearly for their lack of defensive focus. They did so in the first half, and in the second, Real Madrid again became complacent, only to be dealt a tremendous scare with Carlos Vicente's goal, who hadn't even been on the pitch for a minute when he equalized in the 69th minute. Then Vinicius, who had been largely anonymous throughout the match, appeared to assist Rodrygo for the winning goal. The Brazilian confirmed his good form and was once again decisive on an uncomfortable night for Los Blancos. Three points, temporary relief, and lingering doubts. The Brazilian continues his upward trajectory after scoring against City and saved his team with another goal. Real Madrid did enough to win, add three points, and give Xabi Alonso a few days of peace of mind, as he has yet to dispel doubts about his team's performance. The victory keeps the La Liga title race alive, but also makes it clear that if Real Madrid wants to compete with Barcelona until the end, they will need more than just individual brilliance.

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