In the final moments of the game, Lucas Vazquez scores a crucial goal, leading Real Madrid to a 1-0 victory over Deportivo Alaves. Despite playing with only 10 players, Los Blancos manage to secure the win and claim the top spot in the La Liga standings.

Real Madrid clinched a 1-0 win against Deportivo Alaves in the LaLiga EA Sports game thanks to Lucas Vazquez’s late heroics. Despite being a player down due to Nacho’s red card, Vazquez’s unchallenged header in the 92nd minute determined the outcome of a tense match.

Following a VAR review, Nacho’s expulsion put Real Madrid in a vulnerable situation. Nevertheless, they responded effectively, and Alaves were unable to pose a threat to their improvised defense, which included Aurelien Tchouameni as a central defender. It was clear that Alaves struggled to score in four consecutive league matches.

Following this victory, Real Madrid now lead La Liga with 45 points, being tied with Girona but surpassing them in both goal difference and head-to-head record. This win during the winter break places them in a favorable position to secure the title.

Real Madrid’s unbeaten streak has now reached 17 games across all competitions. Their achievements in winning the Club World Cup, the Copa del Rey, and acquiring Jude Bellingham, a promising talent, have made them the frontrunners for dominance in 2023. Securing a win in the final moments of the match has become a trademark move for Real Madrid, demonstrating their resilience.

Rafa Marin, who is currently on loan at Alaves from Real Madrid, delivered an exceptional performance in the heart of the defense. His confident and composed display would have resulted in a clean sheet if it weren’t for the momentary lapse in marking during the late corner. Due to Nacho’s suspension and other absences, Real Madrid may contemplate recalling Marin from his loan next month.

Player ratings:
Alaves: Sivera 6, Gorosabel 6, Abqar 7, Maris 7, Duarte 5, Guevara 6, Blanco 5, Gruidi 5, Rioja 5, Rebbach 5, Omorodion 5. Sustitutos: Hagi 5, López 5, Sola 5, Tenaglia 5, García 5.
Real Madrid: Kepa 6, Vázquez 7, Nacho 4, Rudiger 7, García 6, Kroos 6, Modric 5, Valverde 6, Díaz 6, Bellingham 5, Rodrygo 5. Sustitutos: Tchouameni 6, Joselu 5, Ceballos s/n.