Osasuna vs Real Madrid Review
Osasuna secure a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at Estadio El Sadar in La Liga which extended their unbeaten streak to six league matches (4 wins, 2 draws) and ended Real Madrid’s eight-game winning streak. After a cautious start from both teams and a period where Real Madrid held 72% possession, the match came alive around the 15th minute with a series of intense exchanges involving Vinícius Júnior and others, which energized the home fans. Shortly after, Ante Budimir had Osasuna’s first shot on goal, narrowly missing with a curled attempt that beat Thibaut Courtois.
The Belgian then made an outstanding one-handed save after a whipped cross into the box caused confusion, and Budimir struck the post with a header from just inside the penalty area. Vinícius’ skillful moves, Kylian Mbappé’s powerful long-range shot, and David Alaba’s fierce strike from distance could have given Los Blancos the lead on another occasion. However, after Courtois was judged to have fouled Budimir inside the box, Budimir calmly converted the penalty with a simple left-footed shot to put the home team ahead 1-0.
Both teams exchanged attacks for much of the first 10 minutes of the second half without any goals, until Arda Güler unleashed a right-footed missile that left Sergio Herrera struggling. Osasuna’s energy and smooth ball movement eventually forced their opponents to make two substitutions, and one of those substitutes, Trent Alexander-Arnold, quickly brought the speed and intent that had been lacking in Real Madrid’s play.
Mbappé unleashed a brilliant shot into the top corner, but the offside flag was raised, yet it was another indication that Los Blancos were gradually regaining control of the match. Right away, Federico Valverde made an impressive run and delivered a cross to Vinícius, who scored easily from six yards out. Only a last-ditch block by Javi Galán prevented Mbappé from quickly adding a second goal. In the final minute, Raúl García scored an incredible solo goal to secure the win for the home team.
This late goal also ended Real Madrid’s 24-game unbeaten streak in head-to-head matches against Los Rojillos (7 draws, 18 wins), which had lasted since January 2011. More importantly, this loss gives Barcelona a chance to overtake Los Blancos when the Blaugrana play Levante on Sunday.
