Real Madrid Edges Osasuna in La Liga Opener
Aug 19, 2025
Kylian Mbappé's penalty secured a narrow 1-0 victory for Real Madrid against Osasuna, marking a successful La Liga debut for new manager Xabi Alonso. Despite dominating, Real Madrid needed Mbappé's spot-kick to break the deadlock.

Real Madrid Kicks Off La Liga Campaign with Narrow Win Over Osasuna
Kylian Mbappé's second-half penalty proved decisive as Real Madrid edged past a resilient Osasuna side with a 1-0 victory at home, marking a successful league debut for new manager Xabi Alonso. Despite dominating possession, Real Madrid struggled to unlock Osasuna's defense until Mbappé's spot-kick provided the breakthrough.
Mbappé's Penalty Seals the Deal
After a frustrating first half, Real Madrid's persistence paid off when Mbappé drew a penalty six minutes after the restart. The French superstar coolly converted, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and igniting the home crowd. While the goal forced Osasuna to become more adventurous, Real Madrid couldn't capitalize on further chances to extend their lead.
Osasuna's late surge for an equalizer was hampered by Abel Bretones' dismissal for an off-the-ball incident. Despite the victory, Alonso acknowledged the need for improvement as Real Madrid aims to reclaim the La Liga title from Barcelona.
Debutants Add Spark to Real Madrid
Alonso handed starting berths to new signings Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Álvaro Carreras in the defensive line. Later in the game, Argentinian teenager Franco Mastantuono was introduced for his Real Madrid debut. Mastantuono nearly made an immediate impact, testing the Osasuna goalkeeper with a sharp effort.
Osasuna's Near Miss
Despite spending much of the game defending, Osasuna came close to snatching a point when Ante Budimir headed over from close range. However, Real Madrid held on for a valuable victory.
Alonso's Tactical Approach
Real Madrid displayed impressive passing and control in the first half, but struggled to create clear-cut chances. Éder Militão's long-range strike forced a good save from the Osasuna goalkeeper, Sergio Herrera. After the break, Arda Guler also came close with a shot from outside the area.
Key Absences
Real Madrid secured the win despite being without several key players, including Jude Bellingham, Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga, Endrick, and the suspended Antonio Rüdiger. With Barcelona also winning their opening match, the pressure was on Alonso to deliver three points.
