Mbappé Scores on Comeback as Real Madrid Beat Alaves 2-1

Kylian Mbappé marked his return from injury by scoring a vital goal in Real Madrid’s 2-1 La Liga victory at Mendizorrotza Stadium against Alaves on Sunday. Rodrygo Goes also scored as Madrid secured a crucial three points, easing pressure on coach Xabi Alonso amid a tense spell for the Spanish side.

The win moves Madrid to second place in La Liga, four points behind leaders Barcelona, and represents only their third victory in the last nine matches across all competitions.

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Mbappé’s Impact After Knee Discomfort

After missing Real Madrid’s Champions League defeat against Manchester City earlier in the week due to knee issues, Mbappé started against Alaves. He appeared cautious during the opening minutes but quickly became Madrid’s most influential player.

The French superstar opened the scoring in the 25th minute, racing onto a pass from Jude Bellingham before curling a precise shot into the top-right corner for his 17th league goal of the season.

Madrid had an earlier goal by Bellingham ruled out for handball, but Mbappé’s opener restored confidence to the visitors.

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Alaves Fight Back but Madrid Hold On

Alaves equalised in the 68th minute through Carlos Vicente, who exploited a defensive lapse by Antonio Rüdiger and controlled a chipped pass from former Madrid midfielder Antonio Blanco to slot past Thibaut Courtois.

Despite the setback, Real Madrid regained the lead thanks to Rodrygo Goes, who converted a precise Vinicius Junior cross from close range. The Brazilian’s goal marked his second in two games, ending a 32-match scoring drought.

Madrid survived late chances from Alaves, including a near-miss from Bellingham in stoppage time, to secure the 2-1 win.

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Alonso’s Lineup Challenges

Coach Xabi Alonso made several forced adjustments due to suspensions and injuries. Left-back Victor Valdepenas made his debut, filling in for the suspended Álvaro Carreras and Fran García, while Ferland Mendy was unavailable due to injury.

The victory provides a temporary reprieve for Alonso, whose position has come under scrutiny following inconsistent results. Spanish media had suggested a defeat at Alaves could have put his future at Madrid in jeopardy.

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La Liga Standings and Upcoming Fixtures

• Barcelona continues to lead La Liga after a 2-0 win against Osasuna on Saturday, maintaining a seven-game winning streak.
• Real Madrid’s victory ensures they remain in contention for the top spot before the winter break.
• Third-place Villarreal’s match against Levante was postponed due to severe weather warnings in Valencia.

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Key Takeaways

• Mbappé’s return has revitalised Real Madrid’s attacking options.
• Rodrygo’s goalscoring form may be crucial for Madrid’s title hopes.
• Alonso can breathe easier for now, but consistency remains vital in the tightly contested La Liga race.