According to Spanish media, Real would sack coach Xabi Alonso if they suffered defeat at Mendizorroza stadium. However, the royal club secured a crucial victory, with the key factor being the return of Mbappe, who missed the 1-2 comeback loss to Man City in the Champions League earlier this week.

Kylian Mbappe celebrates his goal in Real's 1-0 victory over Alaves on matchday 16 of La Liga at Mendizorroza stadium, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain on 14/12/2025. Photo: LaPresse.

In the first half alone, the French forward took four shots, one of which found the back of the net. In the 24th minute, Jude Bellingham delivered a threaded pass, allowing Mbappe to break free down the left wing, drive into the penalty area, and place a signature shot into the far corner, leaving goalkeeper Antonio Sivera rooted to the spot.

Mbappe is currently the player with the most goals from individual runs across Europe's top 5 leagues in all competitions this season, with 7 goals, three more than the next player. He continues to lead the La Liga top scorer chart with 17 goals, six ahead of second-placed Ferran Torres (Barca).

While dominating the game, Real conceded due to defensive errors, a recurring issue that has cost them points multiple times this season. In the 68th minute, center-back Antonio Rudiger was out of position, allowing Carlos Vicente to beat the offside trap and break through to fire a shot into the near post past Thibaut Courtois in a one-on-one situation.

Rodrygo celebrates the winning goal. Photo: Marca.

Nevertheless, the visitors secured three points thanks to brilliant performances from their attacking stars. In the 76th minute, Vinicius sprinted past the opposing defender before delivering an outside-of-the-foot pass into the box for his compatriot Rodrygo to tap in from close range, securing the victory.

Vinicius has provided the most assists for Rodrygo at Real across all competitions (11), more than double that of second-placed Luka Modric (5). Rodrygo scored in two consecutive matches, having also opened the scoring in the loss to Man City a few days ago. Prior to this, the Brazilian forward endured a 30-match goalless streak, the longest goalless streak for a forward in Real's history.

The 2-1 victory not only eased pressure on Alonso but also helped Real close the gap on Barca to four points. On 17/12, Alonso's squad will visit lower-division club Talavera in the round of 16 of the Copa del Rey before returning home to host Sevilla on matchday 17 of La Liga three days later.

Hong Duy