Real Madrid, top of LaLiga, is determined to bounce back from their midweek Champions League loss against Liverpool as they face local rivals Rayo Vallecano. Coach Xabi Alonso insists the team is focused on finishing strong before the international break.
LaLiga leaders Real Madrid will look to regain their confidence in LaLiga after suffering a midweek defeat in the Champions League. The team is set to face local rivals Rayo Vallecano at the Estadio de Vallecas on Sunday (November 9), aiming to rebuild their momentum ahead of the two-week international break.
Currently at the top of the league table with 30 points from 11 matches, Real Madrid holds a five-point lead over second-placed Barcelona. However, inconsistencies in their performance, particularly against stronger opponents, have led to scrutiny over manager Xabi Alonso’s rotation policy. The Champions League defeat at Liverpool, a 1-0 loss on Tuesday (November 4), highlighted concerns about the team's ability to compete at the highest European level. Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois played a crucial role in preventing a heavier defeat, making several key saves.
Speaking in a press conference on Saturday (November 8) ahead of the match against Rayo Vallecano, Alonso reflected on the Liverpool defeat, stating that the team had already analyzed the match and is now fully focused on the upcoming LaLiga fixture.
“Since coming back from the Champions League match, the most important thing now is the next one in Vallecas. We want to keep up the pace we’ve had in LaLiga. Before the international break, we want to finish strong,” said Alonso.
Alonso also acknowledged the challenge posed by Rayo Vallecano, noting their good form and the intensity of previous encounters at the Estadio de Vallecas. Real's most recent visit ended in a 1-1 draw in what was a closely contested match.
“Rayo are in a good moment, and in recent visits there have always been tough matches. Last year’s ended in a draw, with a lot going on during the game. Tomorrow we’re ready for a match with high intensity, a lot of rhythm, and it’s going to demand a lot from us,” Alonso said.
Alonso expressed satisfaction with the spirit in the Real Madrid dressing room, praising the team's strong personalities and motivated mindset as they continue to build under his leadership.
“It’s a dressing room full of great players, with strong personalities, starting a new project, and full of motivation. I’m very happy with them. We’re making progress step by step, and that’s what gives me energy,” he added.
Despite the Champions League setback, Real Madrid remains firmly in control in LaLiga, and Alonso will be hoping to use the Rayo Vallecano match as an opportunity to steady the ship and keep his side on track for the rest of the season.
The upcoming fixture will be an important test for the team as they aim to continue their strong LaLiga campaign and prepare for the challenges ahead after the international break.
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