Real Madrid secured a vital 1-0 away win against Alaves on Sunday to maintain pressure on league leaders Barcelona.
Eduardo Camavinga’s first-half strike proved decisive in a tense encounter marked by two red cards.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti opted to rest key attackers Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior ahead of their Champions League clash with Arsenal and his side initially struggled to break down a high-pressing Alaves side at Mendizorroza.
An early effort from Raul Asencio was ruled out after Antonio Rudiger was adjudged to have fouled Alaves keeper Jesus Owono in the build-up.
Camavinga eventually broke the deadlock in the 26th minute, curling a fine effort into the top corner after a slick one-two with Federico Valverde on the edge of the area.
However, Real’s momentum was quickly checked when Kylian Mbappe was sent off just four minutes later for a reckless challenge on former Madrid academy product Antonio Blanco.
Initially shown a yellow, the decision was upgraded to a red after VAR review.
Despite being a man down, Madrid managed the game with discipline and were handed a reprieve in the 70th minute when Alaves defender Manu Sanchez received a straight red for a dangerous tackle on Vinicius, who had come off the bench.
The result keeps Madrid four points behind Barcelona with the title race still alive, while Alaves remain just above the relegation zone in 17th.
