Real Madrid started in style but ended in uncertainty in a thrilling 3-2 win over Alaves. Los Blancos were in fine form for 45 minutes, the trio of Vinicius Jr-Kylian Mbappe-Rodrygo spinning to give the home side a 3-0 lead. But two late goals from Alaves made things interesting – and nearly saw Carlo Ancelotti’s men collapse.

Madrid’s opening goal came from an unexpected angle, Lucas Vazquez sweeping Vinicius’ cutback into the bottom corner. Mbappe made it two just before half-time, a quick exchange with Jude Bellingham leading to an easy finish for Los Blancos’ big summer signing.

Rodrygo scored the third shortly after the break, sliding one through the keeper’s legs after having far too easily dodged two Alaves defenders. Endrick came close to a fourth within minutes of entering the fray, his deflected shot hitting the post.

Alaves hung on, though. Carlos Protesoni grabbed the first, curling one from outside the area onto the post. Veteran Kike Garcia added a second two minutes later in a nail-biting finish. Los Blancos held on, though, with some smart defensive work securing a victory that proved far from easy.

GOAL rates Madrid’s players from Santiago Bernabeu…