Real Madrid kicked off their 2025–26 La Liga campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu, thanks to a second-half penalty converted by Kylian Mbappé. While the scoreline was modest, the match carried significant weight—it marked the debut of new head coach Xabi Alonso in the league, the first competitive outing for several summer signings, and a glimpse into Madrid’s evolving tactical identity.

Despite dominating possession and fielding a star-studded lineup, Los Blancos struggled to break down a disciplined Osasuna side, who held firm until a clumsy foul in the box gifted Madrid the breakthrough they needed.

A New Era Begins Under Xabi Alonso

The match was Alonso’s first La Liga fixture as Real Madrid manager, following his appointment after Carlo Ancelotti’s departure to coach Brazil. The former midfield maestro received a warm welcome from the Bernabéu faithful, and his starting XI reflected both ambition and transition.

Three new signings—Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Álvaro Carreras—were handed debuts in defense, while teenage sensation Franco Mastantuono made his first appearance off the bench. Alonso’s tactical setup emphasized control and width, with Vinícius Júnior and Mbappé leading the attack and Arda Güler orchestrating play from midfield.

First Half: Dominance Without Reward

Real Madrid controlled the tempo from the outset, registering over 70% possession in the first half. However, Osasuna’s compact defensive shape and aggressive pressing limited Madrid’s chances to long-range efforts and speculative crosses.

Eder Militão and Huijsen both tested Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera with powerful strikes from distance, while Mbappé came close with a curling effort that narrowly missed the top corner. Vinícius Júnior was lively on the left flank, linking well with Carreras, but the final ball often lacked precision.

Osasuna, meanwhile, offered little going forward but remained organized and resilient. Their best chance came from Ante Budimir, who headed wide from a rare counterattack. The visitors were content to absorb pressure and wait for Madrid to make a mistake.

Second Half: Mbappé Breaks the Deadlock

The breakthrough came in the 51st minute when Mbappé, cutting inside from the right, was brought down by Juan Cruz inside the box. The referee pointed to the spot, and the French forward calmly dispatched the penalty, sending Herrera the wrong way and giving Madrid a deserved lead.

It was a fitting start to Mbappé’s second season in Spain, where he now wears the iconic No. 10 shirt. After finishing as La Liga’s top scorer last season, expectations are high, and his composure under pressure reaffirmed his status as Madrid’s talisman.

Following the goal, Madrid pushed for a second. Arda Güler unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box that forced a diving save, while Mastantuono nearly marked his debut with a goal, denied only by Herrera’s reflexes.

Late Drama and Missed Opportunities

Despite their dominance, Madrid couldn’t extend their lead. Osasuna remained in the game and nearly snatched an equalizer in the dying minutes when Budimir again found space in the box, only to head over from close range.

The match ended with a flash of controversy as Osasuna defender Abel Bretones was shown a straight red card in stoppage time for a high arm challenge on Gonzalo García. The dismissal came too late to influence the result but underscored the intensity of the contest.

Madrid’s inability to kill off the game left fans slightly frustrated, but the three points were secured, and Alonso’s tenure began with a win.

Key Takeaways

1. Mbappé’s Influence Remains Central
The French forward continues to be Madrid’s most decisive player. His movement, pace, and finishing ability make him a constant threat, and his penalty conversion was the difference on the night.

2. Alonso’s Tactical Blueprint Is Emerging
While the performance wasn’t flawless, Alonso’s emphasis on possession, width, and fluid transitions was evident. The integration of new signings and young talent suggests a long-term vision focused on sustainability and depth.

3. Defensive Solidity with New Faces
Despite fielding a backline with three debutants, Madrid looked composed at the back. Alexander-Arnold offered attacking thrust, Huijsen was strong in aerial duels, and Carreras showed promise on the left. Their chemistry will be crucial as the season progresses.

4. Osasuna’s Discipline Deserves Credit
Though they lost, Osasuna’s defensive organization and tactical discipline kept them competitive. Herrera’s goalkeeping and Budimir’s aerial threat nearly earned them a point, and they’ll be a tough opponent for many teams this season.

5. Injuries and Absences Loom Large
Madrid were without Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, Ferland Mendy, and Endrick due to injury, while Antonio Rüdiger missed out through suspension. Their return will add depth and options, especially in midfield and defense.

Looking Ahead

Real Madrid’s next fixture will be closely watched to see how Alonso builds on this opening win. With Barcelona already registering a dominant 3–0 victory over Mallorca, the pressure is on Madrid to keep pace in the title race.

The performance against Osasuna may not have been vintage, but it showed resilience, tactical discipline, and flashes of brilliance. As Alonso continues to mold the team, fans can expect a blend of youth, experience, and strategic evolution.

For now, the Bernabéu celebrates a winning start, and the journey under Xabi Alonso begins with promise.