Mbappé’s Penalty Seals Opening Day Win for Real Madrid Over Osasuna

 Real Madrid vs Osasuna

Madrid, Spain — The Santiago Bernabéu witnessed a narrow but significant 1–0 victory for Real Madrid over Osasuna in the opening round of the 2025–26 La Liga season. Kylian Mbappé’s second-half penalty was enough to hand new manager Xabi Alonso a winning start to his top-flight tenure in the Madrid dugout.

A New Era Begins

Xabi Alonso, a club legend making his league managerial debut for Real Madrid, opted for a balanced lineup that blended experience with new signings. All eyes were on debutants Trent Alexander-Arnold and Franco Mastantuono, while stalwarts like Aurélien Tchouaméni and Federico Valverde marshaled the midfield.

The match started with Madrid dominating possession, but Osasuna held firm with disciplined defending. It wasn’t until the 53rd minute that the deadlock was broken, after Kylian Mbappé was brought down in the box. The French superstar stepped up and coolly slotted home the penalty, marking his official La Liga debut with a goal.

Mbappé: A Star Emerges (Again)

Despite heavy pressure and physical defending from Osasuna, Mbappé was the standout figure throughout the match. His dribbling, pace, and composure in front of goal justified the immense expectations surrounding his arrival in the Spanish capital. Rated 9/10 by most analysts, he was a constant threat and gave the Madridistas plenty of reason for optimism this season.

“He’s a difference-maker,” Alonso said post-match. “When you have a player like that, even tough games can turn with a single moment.”

Defensive Solidity

While the spotlight fell on Madrid’s attacking options, it was their defensive performance that ultimately ensured the clean sheet. New center-back pairing Dean Huijsen and Álvaro Carreras showed excellent chemistry and poise, earning praise for their composure and reading of the game.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, another summer acquisition, had a steady first outing in white, combining well down the right and showing glimpses of the playmaking ability that made him a Premier League star.

Osasuna's Resistance

Osasuna deserve credit for their organized resistance. They frustrated Madrid for long stretches and nearly equalized late in the match. However, their hopes were dashed when Abel Bretones received a second yellow in the 86th minute, reducing them to 10 men and allowing Madrid to see out the result comfortably.

Youth Movement in Motion

Franco Mastantuono, the teenage Argentine sensation, made his league debut off the bench and impressed in a short cameo. His ability to glide past defenders and his quick decision-making offered a tantalizing glimpse of Madrid’s future.

What’s Next?

The 1–0 win extends Real Madrid’s unbeaten record in season openers to 17 seasons and sets the tone for what promises to be an exciting campaign under Alonso’s guidance. With key players finding form and the squad blending youth and experience, Madrid fans have reason to dream big.

They now turn their attention to next weekend’s away fixture, where tougher challenges surely await. For now, though, the Bernabéu celebrates a winning start to a new era.

Final Score:
🔵 Real Madrid 1 – 0 Osasuna 🔴
⚽ Goal: Kylian Mbappé (53’ pen)
🟥 Red Card: Abel Bretones (86’) – Osasuna

Man of the Match: Kylian Mbappé
Manager’s Verdict: “A solid foundation,” said Alonso. “There’s still a long way to go, but I’m happy with the fight and control we showed.