For weeks, a narrative of serene dominance had enveloped Real Madrid. Under the meticulous stewardship of Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos had sailed through the season, an unstoppable force, seemingly immune to the pitfalls that typically plague even the mightiest teams. Then came the derby. Against their fierce rivals, Atletico Madrid, the illusion of invincibility shattered in a brutal 5-2 humiliation, a scoreline that echoed not just a defeat, but a profound tactical and physical dismantling.
The Riyadh Air Metropolitano`s Cruel Welcome
The atmosphere at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano was electric, charged with the unique intensity only a Madrid derby can conjure. It took a mere 14 minutes for Robin Le Normand to puncture Real Madrid’s composure, a goal that was less an anomaly and more a harbinger of the chaos to come. From that moment, it became starkly apparent: Atletico Madrid’s raw physicality and aerial prowess, particularly through Alexander Soloroth, were simply too much for a Real Madrid backline that seemed disoriented.
Young defenders Alvaro Carras and Dean Huijsen, making their derby debuts, found themselves swimming in an unforgiving current. Their tepid response to Atletico`s relentless pressure highlighted a glaring vulnerability. It was a rare sight – Real Madrid, traditionally masters of the midfield and staunch at the back, were being outmuscled, outfought, and ultimately, outplayed in almost every facet that mattered. Even Antoine Griezmann, ending a 22-match La Liga scoreless streak against Real Madrid, added a touch of poetic irony to the unfolding disaster.
A Tactical Conundrum: Beyond the Scoreline
While Kylian Mbappe and Arda Guler offered fleeting moments of individual brilliance, carving out two goals from tight angles and lovely team play respectively, their efforts served only to marginally soften the blow. When a defense ships five goals, even the most exquisite attacking flourishes feel like mere footnotes. Real Madrid, despite enjoying a significant share of possession, conceded 13 shots, culminating in a troubling 2.31 xG (expected goals) for their opponents. A penalty conceded, numerous defensive breakdowns – it was a litany of errors that left even the most ardent fans questioning the tactical blueprint.
Xabi Alonso, whose reign until this point had been characterized by shrewd management and flawless execution, found himself confronting his first significant managerial challenge. His team, known for extracting results even in the tightest corners (recall the Champions League victory over Olympique Marseille, secured despite being a man down), had run out of fortunate bounces. This wasn`t just a loss; it was a brutal reality check, demanding an immediate and honest “rethink.”
The Missing Pillars and Emerging Challenges
A crucial piece of Real Madrid’s traditional defensive solidity, Antonio Rudiger, was notably absent due to injury. His commanding presence and ability to nullify physical threats have been a cornerstone of Los Blancos’ defense in previous seasons. Without him, the team struggled to cope, leaving a void that younger, less experienced players couldn`t adequately fill. This derby starkly exposed a reliance on individual physicality that, when missing, leaves the entire structure vulnerable.
Looking ahead, the immediate challenge against Kairat Almaty in the Champions League might offer a less demanding test. However, it also provides an opportune moment for Jude Bellingham to shake off the rust from his shoulder surgery. His return promises a boost to both the attack and, crucially, the press – a vital component of Alonso`s system. Yet, if that press falters, the spotlight will inevitably fall back on the center-backs and their capacity to withstand physical onslaughts. This early defeat, while painful, offers a unique opportunity for introspection and adaptation, rather than a season-long crisis.
The Road to Redemption: A Generational Test
The attacking triumvirate of Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappe remains, on paper, an almost unstoppable force, ensuring Real Madrid will never be far from goal-scoring prowess. This formidable front line initially fueled discussions about whether this Real Madrid squad could evolve into a “generational team,” capable of setting new records and dominating for years to come.
This loss, however, serves as the ultimate litmus test. True greatness isn`t merely about stringing together victories; it`s about how a team responds to its first major setback. Can Xabi Alonso`s men adapt their strategy, shore up their defensive vulnerabilities, and translate this painful lesson into renewed strength? The answer will define not just their season, but potentially, their legacy. The derby may have delivered a brutal embarrassment, but it has also presented Real Madrid with the clearest challenge yet to prove their true mettle.
Gareth Fenton