Mbappe and Vinicius Score as Real Madrid Edge Past Alaves in Tight La Liga Win

Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alaves at the Santiago Bernabeu on April 21, 2026, with goals from Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior. The win came despite a spirited performance from Alaves, who pushed the La Liga leaders hard throughout the match.

According to match reports, Alaves took an early lead through their striker, but Real Madrid responded with second-half goals from Mbappe and Vinicius to turn the game around. The Santiago Bernabeu crowd witnessed a tight contest that saw both teams create chances, with Alaves threatening to hold on for a draw or even an upset before the visitors’ late surge.

Alaves head coach Quique Sanchez Flores addressed the media after the match, reflecting on his team’s performance and key aspects of the game. “We controlled the game comfortably and avoided tough situations, which is more or less what we were aiming for,” Flores stated, as reported by multiple sources including Managing Madrid and Yahoo Sports.

Flores specifically praised the performance of Real Madrid’s attacking duo, noting their similarities and impact on the game. “Vinicius and Mbappe are both very good, they have similar characteristics. In some matches they were more effective and in others, less so. I think they’re both decisive and intimidating to face. Real Madrid’s future could be built around having both of them at the same time,” he added, highlighting the duo’s potential for the club’s future.

The Alaves coach also spoke about his team’s tactical approach during the match. “We managed the transitions from attack to defense well. At times we’ve been aggressive and brave. We’ve always tried to reach the opponent’s area. We’re a team full of intentions and passion, but our opponents are very good and they play too,” Flores explained, acknowledging the quality of the Real Madrid squad whereas expressing pride in his team’s effort.

Regarding the goal that gave Real Madrid the lead, Flores commented on the sequence that led to the score. “We had opportunities to cut the deficit earlier and take the game where we wanted. The team made a huge effort,” he said, referring to Alaves’ chances to equalize after going behind.

Flores also addressed the absence of Alaves’ midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, who was not available for selection due to injury. “We missed De Paul’s presence in midfield, but the players who stepped up gave everything,” he noted, providing context for Alaves’ midfield performance during the match.

In addition to discussing the match, Flores spoke about his relationship with Real Madrid’s manager Álvaro Arbeloa, who was in charge of the team for this La Liga fixture. “I highly value Arbeloa’s performance. They competed very well in the Champions League, and that caused them to lose focus on the league campaign. Álvaro has shown consistency. We have a lot of affection and respect for each other, and I value what he’s doing,” Flores stated, emphasizing the mutual respect between the two coaches.

The victory maintained Real Madrid’s position at the top of the La Liga table, extending their lead over their closest rivals. For Alaves, the loss left them in mid-table contention as they continue their push for a European qualification spot.

Looking ahead, Real Madrid will prepare for their next La Liga fixture against Sevilla, while Alaves will face Villarreal in their upcoming league match. Both teams will look to build on this result as the season progresses toward its conclusion.

As the La Liga season enters its final stretch, matches like this one at the Santiago Bernabeu highlight the competitive nature of Spain’s top flight, where every point is crucial in the race for European spots and the league title.