Real Madrid: A Resounding Victory Sparks Hope Amidst Doubts

After a tumultuous spell without a win in La Liga, Real Madrid has reignited its season with a commanding 3-0 victory over Athletic Club at San Mamés. The match served as a much-needed boost for Xabi Alonso and his squad, who had faced mounting criticism for their recent performances. From the very first whistle, the Merengues displayed a level of intensity and clarity that had been missing in previous outings, effectively stifling an Athletic side that struggled to cope with the pace and precision of Madrid’s play.

Following three consecutive matches without a victory, doubts had begun to swirl around the team’s identity and tactical execution. The latest displays left fans questioning whether Madrid could impose their style against teams they were expected to dominate. However, the encounter in Bilbao marked a turning point. The players executed Alonso’s game plan flawlessly, showcasing a high defensive line and quick transitions that left Athletic chasing shadows. The tactical flexibility of a diamond-shaped 4-4-2 morphing into a 3-5-2 allowed key players like Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé to thrive in central positions, enhancing their connection on the pitch.

Mbappé Shines Bright

Central to this revitalized performance was none other than Kylian Mbappé, who delivered an electrifying display, scoring two goals and providing an assist for Eduardo Camavinga. His ability to dictate the tempo and create opportunities was evident throughout the match. With each burst of speed, he not only troubled the Athletic defense but also instilled a sense of urgency in his teammates. This performance brought him level with Cristiano Ronaldo‘s remarkable tally of 61 goals in 2012, marking one of the best individual seasons in Real Madrid’s history.

Concerns Amidst Celebration

Despite the jubilant atmosphere following the victory, there were dark clouds looming over the evening as injury concerns emerged for two key players. Camavinga was forced off after suffering an ankle injury from a heavy challenge by Berenguer, while Trent Alexander-Arnold also exited due to a quadriceps issue. Both players are crucial to Alonso’s system, and their potential absences could disrupt the momentum gained from this win. As they undergo medical assessments in the coming days, the severity of these injuries remains to be seen.

This impressive win not only alleviates some pressure on Alonso but also serves as a reminder of what this squad is capable of when firing on all cylinders. Real Madrid will need to maintain this newfound confidence as they prepare for upcoming challenges, including a crucial Champions League clash against Manchester City. For now, though, Alonso can take solace in his team’s resilience and Mbappé’s undeniable brilliance on the pitch.