Mansion Sports – Real Madrid CF reclaimed the top spot in La Liga after securing a hard-fought victory over Getafe CF in the Madrid derby at Coliseum Alfonso Pérez. 

The match was tense and tactically complex, with crucial second-half changes ultimately proving decisive for the visitors.

Xabi Alonso’s Bold Tactical Decision

Head coach Xabi Alonso made a surprising call at the start of the match by leaving Arda Güler and Vinícius Júnior on the bench. 

Instead, he opted to field Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo Goes to support Kylian Mbappé in the attack.

This attacking trio quickly created danger when Rodrygo delivered a precise pass to Mbappé, whose shot was brilliantly saved by David Soria.

Getafe responded with spirited resistance, nearly taking the lead when Álex Sancris unleashed a volley from outside the box that narrowly missed Thibaut Courtois’s left post. The first half ended goalless, with both teams locked in a tactical battle.

Strategic Shift in the Second Half

In the second half, Alonso introduced Arda Güler and Vinícius Júnior, a move that immediately altered the rhythm of the game. 

Shortly after coming on, Vinícius was involved in an off-the-ball incident that saw Allan Nyom receive a straight red card.

With a numerical advantage, Real Madrid seized control. Güler delivered a superb through ball to Mbappé, who finished clinically to give the visitors a 1–0 lead.

Getafe Reduced to Nine Men and Courtois Saves the Day

Getafe’s troubles deepened when Álex Revuelta was shown a second yellow card for a reckless tackle on Vinícius, leaving the home side with only nine players. 

Despite being heavily outnumbered, Getafe nearly found an equalizer in stoppage time through Abu Kamara.

However, Courtois produced a world-class reflex save to deny the attempt and preserve Real Madrid’s lead in the dying moments of the match.

Top of the Table Ahead of El Clásico

With this victory, Real Madrid moves back to the top of the La Liga standings, two points clear of archrivals FC Barcelona. 

The two giants are set to face each other next weekend at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in the first El Clásico of the season.

Although the three points bring momentum, Alonso’s side is expected to sharpen their performance as they prepare to face Barcelona in what promises to be one of the most anticipated fixtures of the campaign.