Real Madrid reduced the distance to the top of La Liga to six points after securing a 2-1 victory against struggling Alaves at the Santiago Bernabeu. Goals from Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, coming on either side of the interval, proved decisive in a match that kept their title hopes alive.
The home side struck first in the 30th minute when Mbappe finished neatly to register his 24th league goal of the campaign. His composed effort gave Madrid the advantage in a game they needed to control.
Shortly after the break, Vinicius doubled the lead. The Brazilian winger met Federico Valverde’s pass and fired into the bottom corner, marking his 12th goal this season and putting Madrid firmly in command.
Alaves managed to pull one back with the final action of the match, as Tony Martinez found the net, but it was not enough to prevent defeat.
Response after European disappointment
This fixture marked Madrid’s first outing since their Champions League quarter-final exit at the hands of Bayern Munich. The result also ended a brief run of two league matches without a victory, offering a timely response after their continental setback.
Alvaro Arbeloa’s team showed determination to get back on track domestically, knowing that every remaining match carries significant weight in the title race.
The win keeps Madrid within reach, though they remain dependent on Barcelona dropping points in the closing weeks of the season.
Pressure mounts in title race
Barcelona still have the opportunity to restore their nine-point cushion when they face Celta Vigo, with only six rounds of fixtures left. Madrid’s victory ensures the pressure remains on the league leaders heading into that encounter.
A decisive moment in the title run-in will come in May, when Madrid travel to Barcelona for the second El Clasico of the campaign. That clash could have major implications for the final standings.
For now, Madrid must focus on maintaining momentum while hoping for slip-ups elsewhere.
Uncertain future and crucial run-in
Despite their efforts, Madrid are currently heading toward what could be just their fifth trophyless season this century, following previous barren campaigns in 2004-05, 2005-06, 2009-10, and 2020-21.
With Arbeloa’s future reportedly in doubt, securing the La Liga title may be vital for his chances of remaining in charge next season. Each result from here on carries added significance for both the club and its manager.
Looking ahead, Madrid will travel to face Real Betis on Friday, while Alaves are set to host Mallorca the following day.