Real Madrid secured a 2-1 win over Deportivo Alavés at the Santiago Bernabéu, ending a troubling four-game winless run amid mounting pressure from their recent Champions League exit. The result provides timely relief for a squad that had struggled to convert chances, lifting them to within six points of league leaders FC Barcelona with six matches left. While far from a dominant display, the outcome underscores the squad's capacity to deliver under duress.

Early Struggles Reflect Broader Form Dip

Deportivo Alavés arrived with clear intent, fashioning promising opportunities that exposed Real Madrid's shaky rhythm. The home crowd voiced frustration as the hosts labored to impose control, a pattern echoing their recent disappointments. This vulnerability stemmed from a collective dip in precision and cohesion, compounded by the weight of external expectations following continental elimination.

Mbappé and Vinícius Provide Critical Breakthroughs

Kylian Mbappé broke the deadlock in the 30th minute, his shot deflecting past the keeper for a vital goal—his first in the league since February, despite topping the scoring charts overall. Vinícius Júnior then extended the advantage early in the second half with a forceful long-range effort, responding to prior critiques with an emotional celebration that rallied supporters. These moments highlighted individual quality piercing through team-wide inconsistencies.

Late Drama Tests Resolve, Preserves Title Push

Alavés refused to yield, with Toni Martínez pulling one back deep in stoppage time to inject tension into the closing stages. Real Madrid weathered the storm, clinging to their lead despite anxious exchanges. The victory narrows the gap to Barcelona, sustaining pursuit of the crown and offering a foundation for recovery, though imperfections signal ongoing challenges ahead.