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real Madrid’s narrow 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alavés, secured by a late goal from Rodrygo, has temporarily eased the mounting pressure on coach Xabi Alonso, though questions about the team’s form and future persist.The win, achieved despite a “lackluster” performance, comes after recent defeats against Celta Vigo and Manchester City, fueling speculation about Alonso’s position at the club.
A Coach Under Scrutiny
The Spanish media had reportedly begun tightening a “noose” around Alonso’s neck following the Champions League loss to manchester City, a match some had prematurely labeled a “final” for the coach. Despite avoiding a complete collapse in expectations, Real Madrid, under Alonso’s leadership, is currently four points behind league leaders Barcelona. This inconsistency has raised concerns about the team’s ability to compete at the highest level.
Rodrygo Steps Up in a Time of Crisis
In a surprising turn of events, Rodrygo, a player who has faced both personal struggles and limited playing time under Alonso in recent months, emerged as the hero. Having scored for Los Blancos for the frist time in nine months, he secured the victory with a goal assisted by Vinicius Junior in the 76th minute. This performance is notably noteworthy given Alonso’s previous reluctance to include the Brazilian in the starting lineup.
The match also saw Kylian Mbappé open the scoring for Real Madrid in the 24th minute, assisted by jude Bellingham.However, Carlos Vicente quickly leveled the score for Alavés in the 68th minute, setting the stage for rodrygo’s dramatic winner. Antonio Rüdiger anchored the defense, completing the full 90 minutes.
Youth Gets a Chance Amidst injury Crisis
Alonso made a bold move during the match, granting 19-year-old Victor Valdepenas Talavera his professional debut. The left-back, typically playing in the reserves and Youth League, was thrust into action due to a combination of suspensions and injuries, with key players like David Alaba, Eduardo Camavinga, and Ferland Mendy unavailable.
Why did this happen? Real Madrid is currently grappling with a meaningful injury crisis, forcing Alonso to rely on youth players. Who was involved? The key players were Rodrygo (goalscorer), Mbappé (scorer), Bellingham (assist), and debutant Valdepenas. What was the outcome? Real Madrid won 2-1 against Alavés, but the performance was described as lackluster. How did it end? Rodrygo scored the winning goal in the 76th minute, securing a narrow victory for Real Madrid.
The team remains challenging,with a Copa del Rey semi-final clash against third-division club CF Talavera on Wednesday at 9 p.m. (DAZN) followed by a La Liga match against Sevilla FC on Saturday at 9 p.m. (DAZN). The team will need to demonstrate greater consistency and resolve if they hope to overcome their current difficulties and challenge for both domestic and European titles.
