In a thrilling display of determination, Real Madrid snatched a hard-earned victory against Alaves with a stunning stoppage-time header from Lucas Vazquez, sealing a 1-0 win despite playing with 10 men for a significant portion of the match.

The encounter at the Mendizorroza stadium in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, initially appeared to be heading towards a stalemate, with both teams struggling to create clear opportunities in the first half. Follow your favourite La Liga team with attractive La Liga odds from Nextbet. 

Real Madrid, despite their efforts, found it challenging to break through Alaves’ resilient defense, with their best chance halted by goalkeeper Antonio Sivera’s impressive save from Federico Valverde’s powerful strike.

However, the game took a dramatic turn in the 54th minute when Nacho was sent off for a reckless sliding tackle on Samu Omorodion, leaving Real Madrid with a numerical disadvantage. This turn of events sparked a newfound intensity in Real’s gameplay as they relentlessly pushed forward, aiming to capitalize on their chances despite being a man down.

Despite Alaves’ resolute defense, Real Madrid persisted, with Rodrygo narrowly missing a crucial opportunity in the 75th minute. The tense match finally saw its breakthrough moment in stoppage time when Toni Kroos delivered a precise corner kick, finding Lucas Vazquez amidst a crowded box. Vazquez’s emphatic header ignited euphoric celebrations among the Real Madrid players and staff, marking a triumphant end to a challenging game.

Speaking after the match, manager Carlo Ancelotti praised his team’s resilience, acknowledging the difficulties faced with ten men on the field. “This team has unknown energies,” Ancelotti expressed during the post-match conference. “It was a complicated match, and with one man down… everyone thought that today would be a typical day for us to slip up. But we held on well with ten men, we defended well and, in the end, we were rewarded.”

The victory places Real Madrid at the top of the La Liga standings on goal difference, leveling with Girona at 45 points. Despite the hurdles faced during the match, the determination and spirit displayed by Real Madrid underscored their commitment to securing crucial victories in the pursuit of their league ambitions. Get the latest updates from the La Liga only on Nextbet Sports.