Real Madrid tightened the title race in La Liga with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over struggling Alaves on Saturday, narrowing the gap to league leaders Barcelona to just six points.
Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior provided the decisive moments for Carlo Ancelotti's side, each finding the net in a match that saw Madrid dominate possession but face spirited resistance from a team battling to avoid the drop. The win extends Madrid's unbeaten run and applies significant pressure at the top of the table.
"It was a crucial three points," said Ancelotti post-match. "We showed character against a difficult opponent. Every match is a final for us now in this chase."
The result leaves Alaves mired in the relegation zone, while Madrid's focus shifts entirely to maintaining this momentum. With the Clasico looming later in the season, this victory ensures the championship battle remains intensely alive.