Real Madrid narrow victory over Alaves as Mbappe sees red
However, just four minutes later, drama unfolded as Mbappé was initially shown a yellow card for a late and high tackle on Antonio Blanco.
KATHMANDU: Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Alavés on Sunday, reducing the gap with league leaders Barcelona to just four points in a tense La Liga encounter that saw Kylian Mbappé receive his first red card since joining the club.
Eduardo Camavinga scored the decisive goal in the 34th minute with a stunning strike from outside the penalty area, giving Real an early lead at the Santiago Bernabéu.
However, just four minutes later, drama unfolded as Mbappé was initially shown a yellow card for a late and high tackle on Antonio Blanco.
Following a VAR review, referee César Soto Grado was advised to consult the pitchside monitor, after which the card was upgraded to red, leaving Madrid with 10 men for over 50 minutes.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois produced a stellar performance, making six crucial saves to keep Alavés at bay.
The visitors were also reduced to 10 men in the 70th minute after Manu Sánchez committed a harsh challenge on Vinícius Júnior.
Both Vinícius and Jude Bellingham started on the bench, likely rested ahead of Real’s crucial Champions League clash against Arsenal on Wednesday, where they aim to overturn a 3-0 deficit.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti introduced the two stars in the second half to add attacking firepower, but Real managed only one more attempt, while Alavés threatened with five shots of their own.
Mbappé will now miss next Sunday’s home game against Athletic Club due to suspension. Real Madrid are set to face Barcelona away on May 11 in a match that could prove pivotal in the title race.
Elsewhere in La Liga, Athletic Club defeated Rayo Vallecano 3-1, while Villarreal edged past Real Betis 2-1.
