Mbappe penalty gives Real Madrid narrow win over Osasuna in Xabi Alonso’s La Liga debut
Published: 20 August 2025, 3:24:04
Kylian Mbappe scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot as Real Madrid edged past a resilient Osasuna 1-0 on Tuesday, securing a winning start to their La Liga campaign under new head coach Xabi Alonso.
The French striker, last season’s European Golden Shoe winner, converted early in the second half after being fouled by Osasuna defender Juan Cruz, clinching the three points in Alonso’s first match in charge at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Mbappe, now donning the iconic number 10 shirt following Luka Modric’s departure to AC Milan, continues to lead the line for Madrid after finishing his debut La Liga season as the league’s top scorer with 31 goals.
“You can see his desire every day. Today he created those decisive moments that enable us to win matches,” said Alonso, praising the striker’s relentless drive to improve.
Alonso era begins with a hard-fought win
Despite limited preparation due to their Club World Cup semi-final run in July, Madrid showed control and composure against an Osasuna side that made life difficult. Alonso’s request to postpone the fixture had been rejected, but his team responded well.
Madrid defender Dani Carvajal, making his return after a long-term knee injury, said: “We weren’t well prepared, but we basically didn’t suffer and it was a complete display.”
New-look Madrid takes shape
Several summer signings featured, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, making his La Liga debut after a high-profile move from Liverpool. Dean Huijsen and Alvaro Carreras also started, while England star Jude Bellingham remains sidelined until October due to shoulder surgery.
Madrid had to be patient, with first-half chances limited to long-range strikes from centre-backs Huijsen and Eder Militao, both saved by Osasuna goalkeeper Sergio Herrera.
Mbappe finally broke the deadlock in the 51st minute, drawing and converting a penalty after Cruz’s clumsy challenge.
Young Argentine winger Franco Mastantuono was handed his debut midway through the second half and nearly capped it with a goal, but Herrera kept him out. Osasuna’s Abel Bretones was sent off in stoppage time for impeding Gonzalo Garcia with an outstretched arm.
A promising start
With this win, Real Madrid remain unbeaten in La Liga opening matches since 2008 and begin a new chapter under Alonso looking to reclaim domestic and European honours after a trophyless end to Carlo Ancelotti’s era.
Madrid’s next fixtures will further test their depth as they navigate early season challenges without several key players.
