Madrid, August 19, 2025:
Real Madrid vs Osasuna: Mbappé Penalty Secures Opening La Liga Win
Real Madrid started their La Liga 2025/26 campaign with a 1-0 victory over Osasuna at Santiago Bernabéu.
The decisive moment came in the 56th minute, when Kylian Mbappé converted a penalty after being fouled in the box.
Osasuna’s defense frustrated Madrid in the first half, with goalkeeper Sergio Herrera making crucial saves from Rodrygo and Vinícius Jr. However, Madrid’s persistence paid off when Mbappé broke the deadlock.
It was also a memorable evening for manager Xabi Alonso, who managed his first league game for Real Madrid. New signings Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, and Marc Pubill Carreras made solid debuts, while 18-year-old Franco Mastantuono impressed in his La Liga debut.
🔗 Source: Reuters Match Report
Key Highlights
- ⚽ 56’ Mbappé Goal (Penalty): Calm finish to give Madrid the lead.
- 🧤 Herrera denied Rodrygo and Vinícius with key saves.
- 🛡️ New signings strengthened Madrid’s defense.
- 🌟 Mastantuono, the 18-year-old Argentine, impressed on debut.
Manager’s Reaction
After the win, Xabi Alonso praised his side:
“The new arrivals handled the pressure well. This was a difficult opener, but the team stayed calm and showed character,” Alonso said post-match.
🔗 Source: Reuters – Alonso Reaction
Venue & Lineups
- Stadium: Santiago Bernabéu, Madrid
- Competition: La Liga 2025/26 – Opening Match
Real Madrid XI (Probable)
Lunin – Alexander-Arnold, Rüdiger, Huijsen, Carreras – Valverde, Tchouaméni, Bellingham – Rodrygo, Mbappé, Vinícius Jr.
Osasuna XI (Probable)
Herrera – Vidal, Garcia, Cruz, Sanchez – Moncayola, Oroz – Barja, Aimar, Ruben Garcia – Budimir
Final Thoughts
Real Madrid began their La Liga title defense with a crucial win, led by Mbappé’s decisive strike. Xabi Alonso’s debut brought new energy and tactical structure. Madrid fans will be optimistic about what lies ahead in this new era.
