Real Madrid Player Ratings vs Alaves: Mbappe & Rodrygo Shine

Real Madrid Player Ratings vs Alaves

                            Mbappe 9/10, Rodrygo 8.5: Real Madrid Player Ratings vs Alaves After 2-1 Victory.                    Real Madrid secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alaves in La Liga on 14 December 2025, with Kylian Mbappe and Rodrygo finding the net at the Mendizorroza Stadium. The result provided some much-needed relief for manager Xabi Alonso following a difficult spell for Los Blancos.

Mbappe opened the scoring with a superb finish in the 24th minute, continuing his outstanding individual campaign. However, Alaves refused to surrender and equalised through substitute Carlos Vicente in the 68th minute after a defensive mistake from Antonio Rudiger.

Just when Real Madrid appeared likely to drop points, Rodrygo delivered the decisive moment. The Brazilian converted Vinicius Junior's low cross in the 76th minute to secure all three points.

Although the performance was not particularly convincing, Madrid demonstrated their ability to produce important moments under pressure. Here are the complete Real Madrid player ratings vs Alaves, including the standout performers, tactical observations and key talking points.

Real Madrid vs Alaves: Match Details

Competition: La Liga 2025-26

Match: Deportivo Alaves vs Real Madrid

Date: 14 December 2025

Venue: Mendizorroza Stadium

Final Score: Alaves 1-2 Real Madrid

Real Madrid Goals: Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo

Alaves Goal: Carlos Vicente

Manager: Xabi Alonso

Match Report: Mbappe and Rodrygo Deliver the Victory

Real Madrid entered the encounter under considerable pressure following inconsistent performances across competitions. Xabi Alonso needed a positive result, and his players responded with a hard-fought away victory.

Kylian Mbappe provided the breakthrough in the 24th minute. Receiving a perfectly weighted pass from Jude Bellingham, the French forward moved inside before producing an excellent curling finish into the top corner.

The goal demonstrated his outstanding finishing ability and importance to Madrid's attacking plans.

Alaves remained competitive throughout the first half and continued looking for opportunities after the interval.

Their persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Carlos Vicente took advantage of a defensive error by Rudiger to make it 1-1.

The equaliser increased the pressure on Real Madrid, but the visitors eventually found their winning moment.

In the 76th minute, Vinicius Junior produced an excellent run down the left before delivering a low cross into the penalty area. Rodrygo was perfectly positioned to finish from close range.

It was a particularly important goal for the Brazilian, whose La Liga scoring drought had stretched back to January 2025.

Real Madrid managed to protect their advantage and leave Vitoria with three valuable points.

Real Madrid Player Ratings vs Alaves
Goalkeeper

Thibaut Courtois – 7.5/10

Courtois delivered a composed performance between the posts. Although Alaves did not constantly test him, he produced an important save just before half-time to deny Pablo Ibanez. His experience and command of the penalty area helped Madrid through difficult moments.

Defence

Federico Valverde – 7.7/10

Operating in an unconventional right-back position, Valverde demonstrated his versatility. He used his pace to support attacks, delivered dangerous crosses and contributed defensively. His energy was particularly valuable during Madrid's attacking transitions.

Raul Asencio – 7.5/10

Asencio produced an assured performance at centre-back. His positioning, composure and ability to compete in defensive duels helped Madrid maintain control for much of the encounter.

Antonio Rudiger – 6.5/10

Rudiger was reasonably solid for most of the match but made a costly mistake that allowed Carlos Vicente to equalise. His defensive experience remained useful, although the error affected his overall rating.

Victor Valdepenas – 7.5/10

The young academy defender impressed with his composure and confidence. He showed good defensive awareness in one-on-one situations and was comfortable carrying the ball forward. Despite some positional mistakes, it was an encouraging performance.

Midfield

Aurelien Tchouameni – 6.0/10

Tchouameni struggled to reach his usual standards. His passing lacked precision at important moments, while his defensive positioning was occasionally exposed during Alaves' transitions.

Jude Bellingham – 8.0/10

Bellingham was one of Madrid's most influential players. His excellent pass created Mbappe's opening goal, while his movement and energy helped connect midfield with attack. He also threatened the opposition goal and remained heavily involved throughout the contest.

Attack

Rodrygo – 8.5/10

Rodrygo delivered one of his most important performances of the campaign. His winning goal ended a frustrating La Liga scoring drought and rewarded his continued efforts. He also contributed defensively and showed excellent movement inside the penalty area.

Vinicius Junior – 7.0/10

Vinicius had an inconsistent evening and occasionally struggled to maintain possession. However, his excellent run and low cross for Rodrygo's winning goal proved decisive. His ability to create opportunities remained important.

Kylian Mbappe – 9.0/10

Mbappe was Real Madrid's standout attacking performer. His brilliant 24th-minute goal demonstrated his speed, movement and exceptional finishing ability. He constantly threatened the Alaves defence and once again showed why he is central to Madrid's attacking ambitions.

Arda Guler – 6.5/10

Guler showed some promising technical qualities but struggled to make a consistent attacking impact. His contribution was relatively quiet compared with Madrid's other attacking players.

Substitutes

Brahim Diaz – 6.5/10

Diaz brought additional energy after coming on and attempted to increase Madrid's attacking intensity. He also came close to scoring with a powerful effort.

Deportivo Alaves Player Performance

Alaves deserve credit for making the contest difficult for Real Madrid. Their defensive organisation and aggressive approach created problems for the visitors.

Goalkeeper Antonio Sivera made several important interventions, while Carlos Vicente made an immediate impact after entering the game.

Although the hosts ultimately lost, their performance demonstrated their ability to challenge one of La Liga's strongest teams.

Kylian Mbappe: Real Madrid's Biggest Match-Winner

Kylian Mbappe continued his remarkable scoring form with another outstanding contribution.

His goal against Alaves took his La Liga tally to 17 for the 2025-26 campaign, according to the supplied match report. His movement from the left side, acceleration and ability to finish difficult chances make him one of the most dangerous forwards in European football.

His partnership with Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo offers Real Madrid considerable attacking potential. However, the team's dependence on individual brilliance remains a concern.

When Madrid struggle to create consistent attacking patterns, Mbappe's ability to produce decisive moments becomes even more important.

Rodrygo's Resurgence: A Timely Goal for Real Madrid

Rodrygo's winning goal could prove to be an important turning point in his season.

The Brazilian had faced criticism during a difficult period, particularly because of his lack of La Liga goals. However, his performance against Alaves offered encouraging signs.

His movement inside the penalty area was intelligent, and he showed the composure required to convert Vinicius Junior's cross.

At just 24 years old at the time of the match, Rodrygo still had plenty of opportunities to establish himself as a consistent attacking threat.

If he can maintain this confidence, his contribution could reduce some of the attacking responsibility placed on Mbappe and Vinicius.

Xabi Alonso's Position: Victory Offers Temporary Relief

Xabi Alonso arrived at Real Madrid with considerable expectations following his successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen.

However, the 2025-26 campaign had presented several challenges. Inconsistent results, defensive problems and questions about the team's playing identity had increased scrutiny surrounding his management.

The victory against Alaves provided some breathing space, but it did not completely resolve those concerns.

Madrid still appeared vulnerable during defensive transitions and occasionally struggled to control the midfield.

Alonso will need more consistent performances from his entire squad if Real Madrid are to challenge successfully for major honours.

Additional Tactical Analysis: What Real Madrid Must Improve

Despite securing three points, Real Madrid's performance highlighted several areas that require attention.

The first concern is defensive organisation. Rudiger's mistake leading to the equaliser demonstrated how individual errors can quickly change the direction of a match. Madrid need greater concentration when opponents attempt to counter-attack.

Secondly, the midfield must provide better protection to the defence. Tchouameni's inconsistent display showed the importance of maintaining positional discipline, particularly when Valverde moves forward from an unfamiliar right-back role.

Another important issue is attacking balance. Mbappe, Vinicius and Rodrygo possess exceptional individual quality, but their movement and combinations need to become more consistent.

The positive aspect is that Madrid still have players capable of deciding matches through individual brilliance. Bellingham's creativity, Mbappe's finishing and Rodrygo's renewed confidence offer Alonso a strong attacking foundation.

However, relying exclusively on individual moments will not be enough against stronger opponents. A more cohesive tactical structure will be essential during the demanding months ahead.

La Liga Title Race: Three Points That Matter

The victory kept Real Madrid within touching distance of Barcelona in the La Liga title race, reducing the gap to four points according to the supplied match report.

With several important fixtures approaching, Madrid needed to avoid dropping further points.

The result was therefore significant not only for the league table but also for the confidence of the squad.

Barcelona's strong performances meant that Madrid had little room for further mistakes. Consistency, defensive discipline and improved teamwork would be essential if Los Blancos wanted to remain serious title contenders.

Final Verdict

Real Madrid's 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alaves was not a perfect performance, but it was an important result for Xabi Alonso and his players.

Kylian Mbappe delivered another outstanding attacking display, Jude Bellingham provided creativity in midfield and Rodrygo produced the decisive finish.

There were still defensive and tactical concerns, particularly after Alaves found an equaliser through Carlos Vicente. Nevertheless, Madrid showed enough determination to secure all three points.

For Alonso, the victory offered temporary relief. For Rodrygo, it represented an opportunity to rediscover his best form. And for Mbappe, it was another reminder of his extraordinary importance to Real Madrid.

What is your opinion of Real Madrid's performance against Alaves? Was Mbappe the best player, or did Rodrygo deserve the highest rating? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What was the final score between Real Madrid and Alaves?

Real Madrid defeated Deportivo Alaves 2-1 in their La Liga encounter on 14 December 2025.

2. Who scored for Real Madrid against Alaves?

Kylian Mbappe and Rodrygo scored the goals for Real Madrid.

3. Who scored Alaves' goal?

Carlos Vicente scored the equaliser for Alaves in the 68th minute.

4. Who was Real Madrid's highest-rated player?

Kylian Mbappe received the highest rating in this player assessment, earning 9/10.

5. What rating did Rodrygo receive?

Rodrygo received 8.5/10 after scoring the winning goal.

6. Who assisted Mbappe's goal?

Jude Bellingham provided the assist for Mbappe's opening goal.

7. Who assisted Rodrygo's winning goal?

Vinicius Junior delivered the cross that Rodrygo converted in the 76th minute.

8. How did Xabi Alonso benefit from the victory?

The victory provided Alonso with some temporary relief from the growing pressure surrounding his position as Real Madrid manager.

9. Where was the Real Madrid vs Alaves match played?

The match took place at the Mendizorroza Stadium in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.

10. What was the biggest talking point from the match?

Rodrygo ending his La Liga scoring drought and Mbappe's impressive performance were among the biggest talking points.

Conclusion: Real Madrid secured an important away victory, but their performance also showed that Xabi Alonso still had work to do to establish consistency and tactical balance.

Real Madrid Player Ratings vs Alaves: Superhuman Kylian Mbappe & Resurgent Rodrygo Ease Pressure on Xabi Alonso as Los Blancos Grind Out Vital Victory.

                    In a match billed as a potential make-or-break fixture for under-fire manager Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory away at Deportivo Alaves on December 14, 2025.

            Kylian Mbappe continued his extraordinary individual campaign with a stunning opener, while Rodrygo ended his long La Liga goal drought with a crucial winner, helping Los Blancos navigate a tricky encounter at Mendizorroza and temporarily alleviate the mounting pressure on their coach.

Alaves, well-organized and resilient under the lights of their compact stadium, proved a stern test for a Real Madrid side that has struggled for consistency this season. Despite dominating possession at times, Alonso's team lacked fluidity and were often reduced to relying on moments of individual brilliance – a recurring theme in their 2025-26 campaign. Mbappe's goal in the 24th minute, a curling effort into the top corner after cutting inside from the left, showcased why he has been described as "superhuman" this year, marking his 17th La Liga strike of the season.

The hosts fought back valiantly, equalizing through substitute Carlos Vicente in the 68th minute after exploiting a defensive lapse. Antonio Rudiger's error allowed Vicente to race clear and finish emphatically, raising the decibel levels in Vitoria and intensifying the scrutiny on Alonso, whose side had won just two of their previous eight matches across all competitions.

Yet, just when a draw seemed inevitable – and potentially catastrophic for the manager – Real Madrid's Brazilian contingent combined to restore the lead. Vinicius Junior, enduring a frustrating evening overall, surged down the left flank in the 76th minute and delivered a precise low cross for Rodrygo to tap home. It was the 24-year-old's first La Liga goal since January 2025, a timely resurgence that not only sealed the three points but also highlighted his growing importance under Alonso.

The win trimmed Barcelona's lead at the top of La Liga to four points and provided Alonso with some breathing room. Public declarations of support from players like Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni in the buildup had underscored the unity within the squad, but performances like this – gritty rather than glamorous – will be needed consistently if the former midfield maestro is to steer Madrid back toward title contention.

While the result was vital, the display was far from convincing. Real Madrid appeared disjointed in midfield, vulnerable on transitions, and overly dependent on their star attackers. Alaves, sitting comfortably mid-table, pressed aggressively and won the possession battle in spells, exposing ongoing issues with Alonso's tactical setup. The Basque coach, who took over in June 2025 after a glittering spell at Bayer Leverkusen, has yet to fully imprint his philosophy on this galactico-laden squad.

Nevertheless, individual quality prevailed, as it so often does for Real Madrid. Mbappe's return from a minor injury absence was seamless, his movement and finishing a class apart. Rodrygo, starting consecutively after an impressive midweek showing, combined defensive diligence with clinical finishing. Vinicius provided the decisive assist despite an otherwise subdued performance.

Defensively, there were positives and negatives. Young full-back debutant Victor Valdepeñas impressed with his composure and one-on-one defending, earning praise from Alonso post-match despite some criticism for the equalizer. Raul Asencio and Rudiger formed a solid central partnership for much of the game, though the latter's mistake proved costly. Thibaut Courtois made key interventions, including a crucial save just before halftime.

In midfield, Jude Bellingham was influential in the build-up to Mbappe's goal and showed his trademark energy, while Federico Valverde's versatility shone from an unconventional right-back role. However, Aurelien Tchouameni appeared below his best, struggling in transitions.

Substitutes like Brahim Diaz added late energy, but the overall lack of cohesion remains a concern. Alonso will know that victories like this – earned through grit and genius rather than dominance – can only sustain momentum for so long.

As Real Madrid head into a demanding festive period, this result offers respite. But with Barcelona flying and questions lingering over team identity, Alonso's project is still very much a work in progress.

Player Ratings

Real Madrid (out of 10)

Thibaut Courtois - 7.5 Relatively untroubled but produced a vital save on the stroke of halftime to deny Pablo Ibanez. Commanding presence helped steady the defense during Alaves' pressure spells. A calm outing overall.

Federico Valverde (RB) - 7.7 Adapted well to the improvised right-back role, using his pace to overlap and create chances. Delivered several dangerous crosses and a key through-ball. Struggled occasionally linking with Rodrygo but defensive work was strong.

Raul Asencio - 7.5 Composed on the ball and excellent in duels. A strong showing from the young center-back, who looks increasingly assured alongside Rudiger.

Antonio Rudiger - 6.5 Solid for most of the game but culpable for the equalizer with a poor giveaway. Won headers and organized well otherwise.

Victor Valdepeñas (LB) - 7.5 Impressive full debut from the academy product. Confident carrying the ball forward and strong in one-on-one situations. Stepped up for the offside trap effectively at times, though Alonso noted some positional errors.

Aurelien Tchouameni - 6.0 Below par. Struggled with precision in passing and transitions. Lacked his usual dominance in midfield battles.

Jude Bellingham - 8.0 The standout in midfield. Provided the assist for Mbappe's opener with a perfectly weighted pass. Tireless running, clever link-up play, and nearly scored himself (disallowed for handball). Real Madrid's engine.

Rodrygo - 8.5 (Man of the Match contender) Resurgent performance. Scored the vital winner with a poacher's finish and contributed defensively throughout. His first La Liga goal in nearly a year – a massive boost after a prolonged slump.

Vinicius Junior - 7.0 Mixed bag. Poor in possession at times but redeemed himself with a brilliant run and assist for Rodrygo's goal. Drew fouls and stretched the defense.

Kylian Mbappe - 9.0 (Man of the Match) Superhuman once again. Clinical finish for the opener, constantly threatening with his pace and movement. Nullified at times by Alaves' compact defense but his quality shone through. Another goal in a season where he's carrying the attack.

Arda Guler - 6.5 (subbed off if applicable, but started in some reports)** Tidy but lacked incision. Some promising moments but struggled defensively.

Substitutes:

Brahim Diaz - 6.5 Injected energy late on and nearly scored with a fierce shot.

Others (e.g., Dani Ceballos if played) - N/A

Deportivo Alaves (brief)

The hosts were disciplined and competitive. Antonio Sivera made several saves, while Carlos Vicente's impact off the bench was decisive until the late collapse. A creditable performance against the giants.

Features and Analysis
Kylian Mbappe: The Superhuman Carrying Real Madrid

Kylian Mbappe's 2025 has been nothing short of phenomenal. With this latest strike, he reached 17 La Liga goals, complementing his exploits in other competitions to approach 60 for the calendar year across club and country. His ability to produce in big moments – even when the team struggles collectively – has been the silver lining in an otherwise turbulent season for Real Madrid.

Returning from a knee niggle that kept him out of the midweek Champions League defeat to Manchester City, Mbappe looked sharp from the outset. His goal exemplified his threat: receiving from Bellingham, drifting inside, and unleashing an unstoppable curler. Defenders know what's coming, yet few can stop it.

Mbappe's integration into Alonso's system has been seamless in attack, if not always in pressing. His partnership with Vinicius and Rodrygo has flashes of brilliance, but the Frenchman's individual output masks deeper team issues. Without him, Madrid's season could be far worse.

Rodrygo's Resurgence: Breaking the Slump at the Perfect Time

Rodrygo's winner was more than just three points – it was personal vindication. His La Liga drought stretched back to January 2025, a frustrating period amid high expectations. Criticism had mounted, with questions over his role in a star-studded frontline.

Yet, back-to-back goals (following a midweek strike) signal a turnaround. His tap-in was simple but timely, rewarding Vinicius' persistence. Defensively, Rodrygo tracked back diligently, embodying the work ethic Alonso demands.

At 24, Rodrygo has the talent to be a key figure. This could spark a purple patch, easing the burden on Mbappe and Vinicius.

Pressure on Xabi Alonso: Eased for Now, But Questions Remain

Xabi Alonso arrived with immense hype, fresh from Leverkusen's invincibility. Early wins suggested a new era, but recent form – including losses to Celta Vigo and Manchester City – sparked doubts.

Players rallied publicly, with Bellingham affirming unity. This win buys time, but the performance was "sloppy," as one report noted. Madrid lacked identity, relying on stars rather than system.

Alonso's tactics emphasize pressing and structure, but injuries (Carvajal, Militao, etc.) and adaptation issues persist. Florentino Perez's patience is legendary – until it's not.

Deportivo Alaves: A Well-Drilled Side Punching Above Weight

Alaves, mid-table security, frustrated Madrid with compact defending and quick transitions. Vicente's goal highlighted their threat on the break. Manager Luis Garcia's side has punched above expectations this term.

LaLiga Context

The victory keeps Madrid in the hunt, four points behind Barcelona. With tough fixtures ahead, consistency is key.

In conclusion, individual brilliance from Mbappe and Rodrygo salvaged the day. Alonso breathes easier tonight, but the grind continues. Los Blancos march on – precariously, but victoriously.

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