The dismissal came just four minutes after Eduardo Camavinga had put Madrid ahead with a beautifully struck left-footed shot from outside the box, curling past the goalkeeper and into the far corner. The goal ultimately proved to be the difference in a game that became increasingly tense and physical as both sides went down to ten men.
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois played a crucial role in preserving the lead, making six key saves throughout the match as Alaves pushed forward in search of an equalizer. Their hopes were dented in the 70th minute when Manu Sanchez was shown a straight red card for a reckless tackle on Vinicius Jr, catching the Brazilian high on the leg and leveling the playing field in terms of numbers.
Vinicius and Jude Bellingham both started on the bench, likely rested with an eye on Wednesday's crucial Champions League second-leg clash against Arsenal, where Madrid face the daunting task of overturning a 3-0 deficit. Manager Carlo Ancelotti eventually brought them on in the second half to inject energy and secure the win, but Madrid struggled offensively after the break, managing just one shot on target compared to Alaves' five.
Despite the lack of second-half firepower and Mbappe sending off, Real Madrid held firm, collecting three important points that kept the pressure on Barcelona, who had edged past Leganes 1-0 the day before. The victory also ensures that Madrid stay well within striking distance ahead of a potentially title-deciding El Clasico clash on May 11.
Mbappe, however, will miss the upcoming home fixture against Athletic Bilbao due to suspension, a setback for Madrid as the title race intensifies in the final stretch of the season.
