Real Madrid begin La Liga season with victory over Osasuna
Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Madrid failed to extend their lead.
KATHMANDU: Real Madrid kicked off the new La Liga season with a narrow 1-0 win against Osasuna on Tuesday.
Kylian Mbappe scored the decisive goal in the 51st minute from the penalty spot after being fouled inside the box while driving forward from the right wing.
Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Madrid failed to extend their lead.
The match also marked the league debut of Madrid’s new head coach, Xabi Alonso.
He handed starting roles to three new defenders—Alvaro Carreras, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Dean Huijsen—demonstrating his fresh tactical approach.
Alonso took charge of the club ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, succeeding Carlo Ancelotti, who left to manage the Brazilian national team.
Osasuna were reduced to 10 men late in the game after a red card, while Madrid’s young talent Franco Mastantuono impressed coming off the bench in the second half.
Mbappe, meanwhile, had another attempt in the first half that narrowly missed, flying just over the crossbar.
Last season, Real Madrid finished second behind Barcelona, while Osasuna ended in ninth place. Barcelona have also begun the new campaign with a win.
