Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior both scored as Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Alaves, reducing Barcelona’s lead at the top of La Liga to six points.
Mbappé’s goal was his 24th in 27 La Liga games this season.
Mbappé and Vinícius on Target
Real Madrid, under Álvaro Arbeloa, played their first game since being knocked out of the Champions League quarter-finals by Bayern Munich. The win ended a run of two league games without a win for Arbeloa’s side.
Mbappé opened the scoring in the 30th minute at the Bernabeu. Vinícius doubled Real’s lead six minutes into the second half, latching onto a pass from Federico Valverde to score.
Alaves pulled a goal back with the last kick of the game through Toni Martinez.
Barcelona’s Response
Barcelona have the opportunity to reinstate their nine-point lead on Wednesday evening when they host Celta Vigo. There are only six games remaining in the La Liga season.
Real Madrid’s Season
Real Madrid are on course for what would be only their fifth trophyless season this century. The previous four were 2004-05, 2005-06, 2009-10, and 2020-21.
Arbeloa’s future is reportedly uncertain, and winning La Liga may be the only way he keeps his job for next season.
What’s Next
Real Madrid will travel to Real Betis on Friday night. Alaves are at home to Mallorca a day later.
Real still have to travel to Barcelona in May for La Liga’s second El Clasico of the season, but are relying on Hansi Flick’s leaders to slip up elsewhere.