Real Madrid Ready to Extend Lead as They Face Valencia in La Liga
Real Madrid are back in La Liga action tonight, gearing up to face Valencia at the Santiago Bernabéu, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. After their dramatic 2–1 victory over Barcelona in last week’s El Clásico, Los Blancos are looking to build on that momentum and extend their lead at the top of the league table to eight points. It’s a chance for Xabi Alonso’s side to show consistency, focus, and determination before turning their attention to a tough Champions League clash with Liverpool next week.
Manager Xabi Alonso, who has quickly earned respect for his tactical calm and leadership, made just one change from the side that beat Barcelona. Youngster Franco Mastantuono starts on the right flank, replacing Eduardo Camavinga, while the rest of the lineup remains unchanged. Federico Valverde continues to operate at right-back, with Eder Militão, Dean Huijsen, and Álvaro Carreras completing the backline. Between the posts, the ever-reliable Thibaut Courtois retains his spot, giving the team both stability and confidence.
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In midfield, the trio of Jude Bellingham, Arda Güler, and Aurélien Tchouaméni will once again pull the strings, offering a mix of creativity, youth, and power. Up front, Kylian Mbappé leads the attack, supported by Vinícius Jr., who is back in the starting lineup after publicly apologizing for his reaction to being substituted in the Clásico. Mbappé, meanwhile, continues his incredible form — already sitting on 11 goals in the league and five in the Champions League. He was also honored earlier today with the Golden Boot, a recognition Alonso described as “well-deserved for his maturity and influence.”
Speaking to the media ahead of the match, Alonso emphasized the importance of maintaining focus after a big win. “Sometimes after a great result, you risk dropping off a little,” he said. “We can’t let that happen. Valencia is a well-prepared side with quality players, and they deserve respect.” His words carried a clear message: this is no time for complacency.
Valencia, on the other hand, arrive in poor form, having been booed by their own supporters after a 2–0 loss to Villarreal. They’ve gone five games without a win and have slipped dangerously close to the relegation zone. Despite their struggles, Alonso insists his players won’t underestimate them. “La Liga is a marathon,” he said. “You can recover from a loss in Europe, but not in the league.”
With the Bernabéu crowd behind them, Real Madrid will aim to put in a commanding performance, secure another three points, and head to Anfield brimming with confidence. For the moment, all eyes are on Madrid — a team in form, full of belief, and determined to keep their title charge rolling.
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