Real Madrid beat Alaves to close the gap on Barcelona

Real Madrid claimed a crucial and hard-fought 1–0 win over Deportivo Alaves on Saturday afternoon at the Estadio de Mendizorroza, cutting Barcelona’s lead at the top of La Liga to just four points. In a match marred by red cards and VAR drama, Eduardo Camavinga emerged as the hero, scoring a sensational first-half goal that ultimately sealed all three points for the visitors.

From the very first whistle, the game had a tense and fiery atmosphere. Alaves, fighting for every point to steer clear of the relegation zone, came out with energy and intent. Real Madrid, still chasing Barcelona in the title race, knew anything short of a win would be devastating for their championship ambitions.

The decisive moment came in the 34th minute. After a smooth link-up play involving Fede Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga found himself with space just outside the box. The Frenchman unleashed a thunderous left-footed strike that flew past Owono Ngua Akeng and into the net. It was a goal worthy of winning any game, and it showcased Camavinga’s growing influence in Madrid’s midfield.

Just a few minutes after the goal, the momentum of the game shifted dramatically. In the 37th minute, Kylian Mbappe – who started up front for Madrid – lunged into a dangerous tackle on Antonio Blanco. The referee initially issued a yellow card, but after a lengthy VAR review, it was upgraded to red. Mbappe was left stunned as he trudged off the pitch, knowing he might now miss not just La Liga action, but also the upcoming Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.

Madrid were forced to reorganize with ten men for the remaining hour of the match. Despite their numerical disadvantage, the visitors showed tremendous resilience and tactical discipline, anchored by the experience of Toni Rüdiger and the leadership of Valverde and Courtois.

In the second half, the game continued to be physical and gritty. Alaves pushed forward with intent, trying to exploit their man advantage. However, any hopes they had of turning the game around were dashed in the 70th minute when Manu Sánchez received a straight red card for a reckless studs-up challenge on Vinicius Jr. The tackle not only endangered the Brazilian winger but also ended Alaves’ hopes of dominating the rest of the match.

With both teams now reduced to ten men, the final twenty minutes became an open contest. Madrid had chances to double their lead, especially through Rodrygo and substitute Jude Bellingham, but their finishing lacked composure.

Thibaut Courtois, who has returned to the starting XI after a long injury layoff, produced some clutch saves in the dying minutes to preserve the clean sheet. His commanding presence between the sticks ensured Madrid held firm under late pressure from the hosts.

Interestingly, Carlo Ancelotti was not on the touchline during the game. The Italian manager served a one-match suspension due to accumulation of yellow cards. His absence was felt, but his son and assistant, Davide Ancelotti, managed the bench with composure and confidence.

The game also featured a flurry of late yellow cards as tempers flared. From Lucas Vázquez to Vinicius Jr., several Real Madrid players found themselves in the referee’s notebook, clearly indicating just how tense and physical the affair was.

Camavinga’s performance was widely praised. Not just for the goal, but for his tireless work in midfield, especially after Mbappe’s dismissal. His ability to break up play, transition quickly, and control tempo was vital to Madrid’s win.

Kylian Mbappe’s red card, however, has become the main talking point post-match. If the disciplinary committee imposes a multi-game suspension, the French superstar could miss Real’s crucial fixtures, including the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, which would be a massive blow.

For Alaves, the defeat adds to their woes. Despite a spirited display, they failed to capitalize on the brief period of having an extra man. Their season continues to spiral, and they’ll need to pick themselves up quickly with relegation still looming.

With this victory, Real Madrid remain firmly in the title race. Barcelona still hold the advantage, but this win brings the pressure back onto the Catalans. Madrid’s Champions League hopes are also alive, with a massive quarter-final second leg against Arsenal just around the corner.

Madrid fans will be delighted with the grit and determination shown by their team, particularly in a game where they had to battle adversity, remain disciplined, and secure a must-win result without their manager on the touchline.

As the season edges closer to its climax, the margins are fine, and every game feels like a final. Real Madrid have shown once again that they know how to dig deep when it matters most.

And if Camavinga, Valverde, and Courtois continue to shine like they did against Alaves, then Los Blancos might yet have the last laugh in this dramatic La Liga title race.