The 2025-26 La Liga season kicked off with Real Madrid hosting Osasuna in a compelling encounter that showcased a blend of tactical discipline, star talent, and the early imprint of a new coaching era for the reigning Spanish champions. On August 19, 2025, the Santiago Bernabéu stadium witnessed a close but significant 1-0 victory for Real Madrid, highlighted by Kylian Mbappé’s decisive penalty. This season opener set the tone for what promises to be an intense campaign for the Los Blancos under new management.
New Era Under Xabi Alonso
One of the most talked-about subplots of this fixture was the debut of former Madrid star Xabi Alonso as head coach in La Liga. Taking over after Carlo Ancelotti’s departure to manage Brazil, Alonso stepped into big shoes with high expectations. This match was his first full league game in charge, and he delivered a winning start to his tenure. His approach emphasized ball possession and controlled pressure, which saw his side dominate possession at around 70%, though they struggled at times to unlock the well-organized Osasuna defense.
Alonso’s tactical setup included the integration of new signings such as left back Álvaro Carreras, right back Trent Alexander-Arnold, and central defender Dean Huijsen, all of whom featured prominently. The coach’s faith in youth was also clear with forward Franco Mastantuono making a late appearance off the bench, earning cheers from the home crowd, signaling a promising future addition for Madrid.
Match Summary: A Tight Contest Decided by a Moment of Brilliance
The first half was a quiet affair in terms of clear goal-scoring chances, with Osasuna focusing on a low-block defense that limited Madrid’s attacking opportunities. Real Madrid’s attempts were often stifled by Osasuna’s disciplined setup, forcing the hosts to rely on long shots and building gradual pressure rather than quick breaks or incisive play.
Kylian Mbappé, last season’s Golden Boot winner and the clear offensive leader for Madrid, was a constant threat. His best effort came just before halftime—a curling shot from inside the area that narrowly missed the target, signaling his intent. The breakthrough occurred early in the second half when Mbappé showcased his trademark skill: weaving into the penalty area on a swift run down the right flank, evading defenders with a neat cutback, then earning a foul inside the box that resulted in a penalty.
Mbappé calmly converted the spot-kick in the 51st minute, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and slotting the ball into the net. This goal proved to be the match-winner and set Madrid on their path to a hard-fought victory.
Defensive Grit and a Late Red Card
Osasuna showed resilience despite conceding. Their coach Alessio Lisci set up a defensive formation centered on containing Madrid’s attack and exploiting counter-attacks. While Osasuna could not create significant chances, they held firm for much of the game. The match’s tension peaked in stoppage time when Osasuna defender Abel Bretones was sent off with a straight red card for a dangerous elbow on Madrid forward Gonzalo García—a moment that reflected the intensity and desperation in the closing moments as Osasuna pushed to salvage a point.
Player Performances and Ratings
- Kylian Mbappé: The standout performer, delivering the crucial goal and continuous threat on the attack. His ability to draw fouls and convert under pressure highlighted why he remains Madrid’s premier attacking force.
- Álvaro Carreras, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen: The new defensive recruits impressed, especially Huijsen, who forced a notable save with a long-range shot. Their integration into the squad looks promising for defensive stability.
- Franco Mastantuono: The teenage forward made his competitive debut and showed flashes of skill and enthusiasm that earned applause from fans. His future at Madrid looks bright as a potential creative spark off the bench.
- Osasuna Team: Defensively well-drilled and physically disciplined, they frustrated Madrid for long stretches. Midfielder Rubén García admitted that Madrid deserved the victory but credited his team for a resilient defensive effort.
- Rodrygo: Interestingly, Rodrygo remained an unused substitute throughout the match, fueling transfer speculation around the forward, indicative of squad dynamics still evolving under Alonso.
Tactical Insights
Xabi Alonso’s team relied heavily on midfield control and patience, evident in the dominant possession stats. However, the match also exposed some areas needing improvement, particularly in crafting more clear-cut chances against a compact defense. Alonso’s men recorded only five shots on target, with most efforts coming from distance or key moments like the penalty.
Osasuna’s choice to deploy a deep defensive line with tight marking successfully blunted Madrid’s usual fluid attacking patterns. Their discipline forced Madrid to rely on individual brilliance rather than sustained offensive sequences.
What This Win Means for Real Madrid
For Real Madrid, a victory in the opening fixture is vital for confidence and setting a competitive tone for La Liga. It marks a smooth transition under Alonso, who has begun to stamp his identity on the squad while managing expectations. The win also provides a platform for further tactical refinement as Madrid aim to defend their title and compete in Europe.
The performance exposed areas to enhance, such as offensive creativity and sharper finishing, which Alonso will need to address in training sessions and upcoming matches. With new talents integrating and focusing on building chemistry, Madrid’s season is off to a solid but cautious start.
Looking Ahead: Next Challenges
Real Madrid will next face newly promoted Real Oviedo on August 24 at the Carlos Tartiere Stadium. This game should offer more opportunities for Madrid to extend their winning momentum and possibly increase their goal margin. For Osasuna, the loss is a wake-up call to solidify their approach and seek points against future opponents to avoid a difficult season.
Fan and Expert Reactions
The match attracted mixed reactions from supporters and pundits. While Mbappé’s goal and Alonso’s debut win were celebrated, some critics noted the lackluster offensive display and slow start. ESPN analysts Craig Burley and Mario Suarez commented that Madrid’s performance lacked the usual precision and tempo expected but acknowledged the difficulties in early-season fitness and squad cohesion.
Osasuna’s coach Alessio Lisci received praise for his team’s defensive discipline against a top-tier opponent, highlighting the competitive nature of La Liga even from less-fancied sides.
This match was a quintessential La Liga season opener showing the blend of tradition and change at Real Madrid, with Mbappé’s star quality shining through and the team adapting to new coaching philosophies. It sets a captivating scene as the league unfolds and the race for the title intensifies.
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