Alaves vs Real Madrid
Witness the complete replay and highlights of the battle between Alaves and Real Madrid. The action kicks off at 20:30 (GMT) on the 21st of December 2023. The referee for this intense match is Isidro Díaz de Mera, and the game takes place at the Estadio de Mendizorroza. Brace yourself for an electrifying showdown in Spain’s La Liga, Week 18 of the 2023/2024 season. Don’t miss a single moment of the thrilling clash.
Alaves vs Real Madrid Full Match Reports
In a thrilling conclusion to 2023, Real Madrid secured a 1-0 victory over Deportivo Alavés, with Lucas Vázquez’s late header propelling Los Blancos to the top of the La Liga (LL) table under Carlo Ancelotti’s management.
Expressing their early intent, Los Blancos initiated a promising move with Brahim Díaz at the helm, leading to Federico Valverde’s shot, which was skillfully saved. Alavés, however, posed a threat of their own in the early stages. Jon Guridi’s cutback reached Luis Rioja, requiring a smart block from Fran García to deny the first-time effort. Rafa Marín, instrumental in restricting his parent club in the initial 20 minutes, had an opportunity of his own but directed his header straight at Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Despite Real Madrid’s possession, El Glorioso continued to carve out better chances. Jude Bellingham blocked another attempt from Rioja, and Vázquez’s misjudged clearance led to Samu Omorodion’s header, saved after rising above Nacho Fernández. Despite attempts from Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić, breaking through Alavés’ resilient defense proved challenging for Real Madrid. Valverde resorted to two strikes from range before halftime, both expertly denied.
Alavés emerged strongly after the break, gaining further impetus when Nacho Fernández received a red card in the 54th minute for a challenge on Samu, although they struggled to pose a significant attacking threat thereafter. Los Blancos, patient with their ball movement, found it challenging to test Antonio Sivera. Kroos finally unleashed Rodrygo with 15 minutes remaining, but the Brazilian’s effort veered off-target.
As Alavés seemed poised to secure a crucial point, the match took a dramatic turn in the 92nd minute. Kroos delivered an inch-perfect corner, met by Vázquez, who headed in his first goal of the season. This victory, coupled with Girona’s draw against Real Betis, propelled Real Madrid to the summit of the LL table. Meanwhile, Alavés, despite coming agonizingly close to securing a memorable point, endured a third consecutive defeat.
Man of the Match: Toni Kroos (Real Madrid).