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The pressure is on Real Madrid as they begin a new campaign, with fans demanding a response after last year’s disappointing run. Despite the arrival of Kylian Mbappé, the 2023–24 season was a bitter pill to swallow. Madrid were outperformed domestically by arch-rivals Barcelona, who swept the La Liga, Spanish Supercopa, and Copa del Rey, while Los Blancos endured four defeats in El Clásico alone.
In Europe, things fared no better. Their Champions League journey ended prematurely in the quarterfinals with a bruising elimination at the hands of Arsenal. Hopes of salvaging the season at the Club World Cup also crumbled after a heavy semi-final defeat to PSG.
Madrid’s Summer Reset
Determined to turn the page, Real Madrid treated pre-season as an opportunity to rebuild confidence. A 4-0 win over Austrian leaders Tirol, highlighted by a Mbappé brace and an assist, reminded fans of his attacking quality. Training sessions also included a behind-closed-doors win, with Éder Militão producing a stunning long-range strike.
This season, Xabi Alonso is banking on a revamped tactical setup built on dual strikers and adventurous full-backs. With Jude Bellingham sidelined, the midfield focus will rest on Federico Valverde, who has declared himself fit despite a recent muscle scare. As newly appointed captain, Valverde’s energy and leadership are set to be vital. Meanwhile, Vinícius Jr. and Mbappé are expected to spearhead the attack, supported by Brahim Díaz and Arda Güler in rotation.
Osasuna’s Challenge
Opponents Osasuna enter this match looking to shake off a mixed pre-season and push for a European place after finishing ninth last year. Their last visit to the Bernabéu ended in a crushing 4-0 defeat, courtesy of a Vinícius Jr. hat-trick.
This summer, Alessio Lisci’s men played six friendlies but managed just one victory—a 3-0 win over Mirandés. They stumbled to defeats against Huesca (0-2), Real Sociedad (1-4), and Racing Santander (0-1), results that raise concerns about consistency ahead of facing one of the toughest opponents in Spain.
Despite this, Osasuna are known for their tactical discipline and physical approach. They may struggle to dominate possession, but their resilience could frustrate Real Madrid if given the chance.
Prediction
Madrid’s track record suggests defensive solidity could once again shape this encounter. In 13 of their last 14 league matches, at least one side has failed to score, a trend mirrored in seven of Osasuna’s last 11 La Liga games.
While Osasuna are capable of holding their ground, Real Madrid’s attacking depth and home advantage are likely to prove decisive. Expect Mbappé and Vinícius to test Osasuna’s backline relentlessly, with Valverde driving the midfield battle.
Prediction: Real Madrid 3 – 0 Osasuna
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