Real Madrid kept its hopes alive in the race for the La Liga title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Deportivo Alaves on Sunday, April 13, 2025, in the 31st round of the Spanish League. The match took place at the Mendizorroza stadium in Vitoria, Spain, and kicked off at 5:15 PM Mecca time (4:15 PM Cairo time).
The only goal of the match came from French midfielder Eduardo Camavinga in the 34th minute, giving Real Madrid a crucial three points after a series of disappointing results. This victory marks a significant turnaround for the team, which had suffered two consecutive losses prior to this match, including a 3-0 defeat against Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League and a 1-0 loss to Valencia in La Liga.
Despite facing a challenging situation, Real Madrid managed to maintain its lead even after the dismissal of star player Kylian Mbappe in the 39th minute. Coach David Ancelotti, who took charge in his father's absence, praised his team's resilience in the face of adversity. "We showed great character to hold on to the lead despite being a man down," Ancelotti said after the match.
Real Madrid's victory elevates them to 66 points in the league standings, solidifying their position in second place and keeping their title hopes alive. The team is now just four points behind league leaders Barcelona, who have 70 points. Meanwhile, Alaves remains in a precarious 17th position with 30 points, just two points clear of the relegation zone.
The match began with high expectations for both teams. Real Madrid, looking to bounce back from recent setbacks, fielded a strong lineup featuring Camavinga, Fede Valverde, and the returning Turkish forward Arda Güler. In contrast, Alaves, managed by Eduardo Coudet, aimed to capitalize on their home advantage to escape from the relegation battle.
Historically, Real Madrid has dominated their encounters with Alaves, winning 32 out of 39 matches, but the stakes were high for both teams in this encounter. The first leg of the season had ended in a thrilling 3-2 victory for Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, and Alaves was eager to upset the odds.
As the match progressed, Alaves pushed for an equalizer, particularly in the closing stages. However, Real Madrid's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made several crucial saves to deny the home side. The pressure mounted on Madrid as Alaves intensified their attacks, but the visitors held firm.
In the aftermath of the match, Ancelotti expressed relief at the result but acknowledged the need for improvement. "We need to be more clinical in front of goal and manage our game better, especially when we have a lead," he stated. The upcoming Champions League clash against Arsenal looms large on the horizon, adding extra pressure on the squad.
The victory over Alaves is a much-needed boost for Real Madrid, who have been under scrutiny following their recent performances. With just seven matches remaining in the season, every point is crucial as they vie for the La Liga title and aim to secure a strong position ahead of the Champions League quarterfinal.
On the other hand, Alaves will have to regroup quickly as they face a tough challenge to avoid relegation. With only 30 points from 31 matches, the team must find a way to turn their fortunes around in the coming weeks.
As the La Liga season approaches its climax, the pressure is mounting on both teams. Real Madrid aims to reclaim their title and restore their confidence, while Alaves fights to secure their place in the top flight.
The next fixtures will be crucial for both sides, with Real Madrid looking to build on this victory and Alaves seeking to bounce back from disappointment. Fans will be eagerly anticipating how the title race unfolds and whether Alaves can pull off a miraculous escape from relegation.
In summary, Real Madrid's victory over Alaves not only boosts their title aspirations but also highlights the ongoing struggles of the home side as they battle to avoid relegation. The excitement of the La Liga season continues to build as every match becomes a defining moment.
