Real Madrid Secures Victory Against Osasuna

MADRID: Real Madrid commenced their La Liga journey with a 1-0 victory over Osasuna on Tuesday. Kylian Mbappe’s second-half penalty sealed the win, marking a successful league debut for Xabi Alonso as the team’s head coach.

During the initial half, Osasuna’s defense effectively contained Xabi Alonso’s squad. However, Mbappe’s penalty conversion in the 51st minute granted Real the advantage, although they faced challenges in extending their lead.

In the match’s closing moments, Osasuna’s Abel Bretones received a red card after an off-the-ball incident involving Gonzalo Garcia. This ensured that Los Blancos began their league campaign with a victory.

Alonso’s team previously suffered a defeat against Paris St Germain in the Club World Cup semi-final but bounced back with a dominant 4-0 win, asserting control against a visiting team that appeared content with a draw, an outcome they nearly achieved.

Madrid controlled the game’s first half, maintaining possession and executing precise passes. Nevertheless, they struggled to find the net, with Eder Militao’s powerful shot being thwarted by Osasuna’s goalkeeper, Sergio Herrera.

Osasuna’s defensive efforts were undone when Juan Cruz’s foul on Mbappe resulted in a penalty shortly after halftime.

In his inaugural game of the season, Alonso presented opportunities to new club acquisitions Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Alvaro Carreras in his defensive lineup. Subsequently, he introduced 18-year-old Argentine midfielder Franco Mastantuono, marking his debut for Real.

Kylian Mbappe acknowledged that the team’s first-half performance was subpar but emphasized the importance of securing a victory to initiate the season.

Mbappe stated, “We lacked space in the first half, but we managed to score early in the second half. We created more opportunities and had greater control, anticipating a second goal that did not materialize.”
“Initiating the season with a home win was crucial, recognizing the difficulty of the task.

“Osasuna’s strategy was evident as they awaited our advances, relying on Budimir. We are satisfied with the victory and aspire for further success.”

With Madrid’s rivals, Barcelona, inaugurating the league with a 3-0 triumph over Mallorca on Saturday, the win held significance for Alonso, who secured the victory despite the absence of injured players Jude Bellingham, Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga, and Endrick, along with the suspended Antonio Rüdiger.