Real Madrid revive La Liga title race with Mbappé and Vinícius brace against Alavés

Real Madrid returned to winning ways in La Liga after a 2-1 victory over Alavés, in a match that carried double importance for the Spanish giants, ending their recent domestic setback while keeping their mathematical hopes alive in the title race.

The win came on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Real Madrid controlled large phases of the game before conceding a late goal that added tension to the closing minutes.

La Liga: Mbappé strikes first, Vinícius doubles the lead

Real Madrid started with attacking intent, applying early pressure against a side fighting to avoid relegation. After 30 minutes, Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring with a deflected strike that found the net, giving the hosts a deserved lead after a dominant first half.

The goal was significant statistically, marking Mbappé’s 24th in La Liga this season, reinforcing his position at the top of the scoring charts and underlining his decisive influence.

Early in the second half, Vinícius Júnior extended the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a precise long-range shot into the far corner, giving Madrid greater control over the match.

An important win, but not entirely comfortable

Despite the result, the performance was not flawless. Real Madrid missed chances to secure the game earlier, including a bold long-range attempt by Mbappé that sailed over the bar.

Alavés, meanwhile, showed resilience, hitting the post late in the first half before scoring a stoppage-time goal through Toni Martínez, which proved insufficient to change the outcome.

This pattern reflects a key aspect of Real Madrid’s recent form: strong attacking quality, but occasional difficulty in closing out matches with full control.

This also confirms that La Liga this season remains highly competitive heading into the decisive rounds.

Tactical insight: What changed for Real Madrid?

Madrid appeared more determined to regain control, with quicker movement in the final third and effective use of width through Vinícius, while Mbappé remained a constant threat inside the box.

However, the match once again highlighted their reliance on individual brilliance. Mbappé provided the breakthrough, while Vinícius delivered a decisive moment of quality.

Defensively, vulnerabilities remain, particularly in transition phases, suggesting the need for greater balance in upcoming matches.

Militão injury raises concerns

Defender Éder Militão was forced off late in the first half with a leg issue, raising concerns at a critical stage of the season.

What does this mean for the standings?

Real Madrid move to 73 points in second place, six behind leaders Barcelona. The win ends a two-match winless run but leaves little margin for error in the title race.

In simple terms, the victory was necessary rather than decisive. Madrid remain in pursuit, not in control.

Alavés remain in danger

Alavés stay 17th with 33 points, just one point above the relegation zone. Despite a competitive display, their inconsistency continues to cost them crucial points.

Conclusion

Real Madrid achieved exactly what they needed: three points and a return to winning form. Yet the match also highlighted ongoing reliance on individual brilliance and lingering defensive concerns.

As the La Liga season approaches its conclusion, the title race remains open, with the final outcome likely to be decided in the closing rounds.