Rodrygo’s second-half strike earned Real Madrid a vital 2-1 win at Alaves, easing pressure on coach Xabi Alonso and cutting Barcelona’s lead to four points
RODRYGO GOES’ late goal earned Real Madrid a tense 2-1 win at Deportivo Alaves in La Liga on Sunday.
The victory potentially keeps coach Xabi Alonso in his job after intense speculation following a poor run of form.
Second-placed Madrid cut league leaders Barcelona’s advantage back to four points with the win at Mendizorroza stadium.
It was only their third victory in the last nine games across all competitions.
Spanish media had reported that anything but a victory would cost Alonso his position after a home defeat by Manchester City in the Champions League.
Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring with a superb strike in the 25th minute for his 17th league goal of the campaign.
Alaves forward Carlos Vicente pulled the hosts level in the second half, setting up a tense finale.
Rodrygo then secured the visitors a much-needed victory, finishing from close range after a cross from Vinicius Junior.
It was the Brazilian’s second goal in two games after going the previous 32 matches without finding the net.
Alonso celebrated vehemently, knowing his future could have depended on the result.
The coach was able to bring his key player, Mbappe, back into the side after he missed the defeat by City with knee discomfort.
Mbappe appeared to be feeling his knee in the first few minutes but was the game’s most influential player.
England international Jude Bellingham had a goal ruled out for handball in the first half.
Alaves almost took the lead after equalising, but Toni Martinez nudged a chance wide under pressure.
Third-place Villarreal’s visit to face Levante was postponed because of a weather warning.
On Saturday, champions Barcelona beat Osasuna 2-0 to win a seventh straight La Liga game. – AFP
