Xabi Alonso gives honest take in Real Madrid win against Osasuna: 'We struggled'
Despite Real Madrid earning three points after their 1-0 win over Osasuna, Xabi Alonso acknowledged the team's efforts in trying to score more goals. Alonso started a front three of Vinicius Jr., Kylian Mbappe, and Brahim Diaz.
The goal came in the second half as Mbappe was fouled in the box in the 50th minute. Mbappe stepped up to convert the penalty and give Real Madrid the 1-0 lead.
Real Madrid kept insisting on scoring more, but they couldn't find another. Mbappe was the man of the match after scoring one goal, creating two chances, and completing eight dribbles.
Among Real Madrid fans, there were concerns for Vinicius Jr., who had one shot off target and only completed one dribble. After the game, Alonso was happy with the result but did admit the team struggled to create chances.
Xabi Alonso on Real Madrid's Attack
Real Madrid looks solid defensively as the team has only conceded two shots from Osasuna. It was the final third that was a concern for Alonso, but he isn't too concerned, as the season had just started.
Xabi Alonso: "There were some good aspects, and others we need to improve. The road is long, but we were organized. We lacked vitality in the final third of the pitch, and we struggled to create real chances. I am confident that the team will continue to improve and regain its rhythm. We are in the tuning phase, but a win gives you peace of mind."
Alonso didn't question the attack too much as he analyzed Osasuna's shape during the majority of the game.
Their low block made it difficult for Real Madrid to create clear chances in front of goal, and Alonso believes the team has not had enough time to work on breaking down teams that defend deep.
Xabi Alonso: "Osasuna put in a great performance. It was difficult to find spaces. At the very least, they didn't allow us to enter the penalty area much, as we managed to play a lot in the opponent's half. We lacked the final pass, and we need to keep improving...We haven't prepared well to face deep blocks yet, we haven't had the time. We will work on it more."
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