Mbappé penalty earns Real Madrid narrow win over Osasuna in opener
Kylian Mbappé second-half penalty gave Real Madrid a 1-0 victory over Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday, extending their unbeaten La Liga run to 21 matches. Xabi Alonso’s side were without Antonio Rüdiger, Jude Bellingham, Endrick and Eduardo Camavinga, but dominated possession from the outset. Despite controlling 79% of the ball in the first half, Madrid struggled to create clear chances, with Vinícius Junior missing their best opportunity before the break. Osasuna grew into the match after half-time, but a clumsy challenge by Juan Cruz on Kylian Mbappé in the 50th minute allowed the French forward to convert from the spot and secure the points. The result keeps Real level with rivals Barcelona, who opened their campaign with victory over Mallorca. A superb slaloming run from Kylian Mbappé was stopped in its tracks after a crunching challenge from Enzo Boyomo, whilst long-range efforts from Dean Huijsen and Éder Militão were palmed to safety by Osasuna keeper, Sergio Herrera. As the half wore on there was little variation in Real’s play, and despite having 79 per cent possession, it was Vinícíus’ wayward effort on 38 that more than summed up the collective frustration at HT. The opening few minutes of the second half saw Los Rojillos taking the game to their opponents, however, a clumsy sliding challenge on 50’ from Juan Cruz on Mbappé afforded the Frenchman the opportunity to put Real ahead from the penalty spot.
