Real Madrid’s Strategic Gamble Against Alavés in Crucial LaLiga Clash
So here we are—another pivotal afternoon in the LaLiga EA Sports season, and all eyes were on Vitoria as Real Madrid faced off against Deportivo Alavés. A match that may seem like just another stop on the fixture list, but make no mistake—this one carried weight. A lot of it.
With the Champions League return leg against Arsenal looming large midweek, Carlo Ancelotti was forced into what you'd call “controlled but meaningful” rotations. And they were bold ones. Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr.—two pillars of this Madrid side—both started on the bench. That’s not something you see every day. It was a clear sign that the coach is trying to balance ambition with preservation. Ancelotti knows what’s at stake in Europe, but he also knows LaLiga cannot be sacrificed.
The decision opened the door for two less frequent starters to step into the spotlight: Arda Güler and Rodrygo. Güler was given a golden opportunity to prove his worth in midfield, while Rodrygo slotted in on the left flank, supporting Mbappé, who once again led the line as the number 9.
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Camavinga, suspended for the Arsenal clash, was rightly unleashed with no restraint. He played alongside Tchouaméni and Valverde, forming a dynamic and aggressive midfield trio tasked with controlling the rhythm and recovering lost confidence after back-to-back defeats against Valencia and Arsenal.
Defensively, Real Madrid didn’t hold back. Lucas Vázquez and Fran García took up the flanks, while Rüdiger and Asencio anchored the center. Courtois, as always, commanded from the back. Meanwhile, Alaba, still nursing discomfort, took his place on the bench.
And speaking of benches—what a stacked one it was. Bellingham, Vinicius, Modric, Brahim, Endrick… options galore if things needed shaking up. Ceballos also made a welcome return to the squad after a 45-day absence, though he was expected to be eased in gently.
Now, about Ancelotti—not on the touchline. That’s right, the Italian maestro had to watch from the stands, serving a suspension after accumulating five yellow cards. It definitely added a layer of drama to an already tension-filled game.
This match wasn’t just about three points. No, it was the first domino in a week where everything could change for Real Madrid. The club’s internal messaging was clear: “There is no remontada against Arsenal without beating Alavés first.” A win today wasn't just necessary for the league—it was vital for the team’s psyche, their momentum, and the belief that magic is still possible this season.
And so, with the starting whistle, Madrid didn’t just take the field at Mendizorroza—they stepped onto the first tile of what they hope is a golden path. Victory today keeps LaLiga hopes alive and lights the flame for a European night of redemption. Let’s see if the gamble pays off.
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