Real Madrid Coach Xabi Alonso Embraces Pressure After Olympiacos Win

Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso faced pressure head-on as his side ended a difficult run with a dramatic Champions League win over Olympiacos. The much-needed 4-3 victory not only stopped Madrid’s three-game winless streak but also offered a timely boost to morale inside the dressing room.

Xabi Alonso on Real Madrid’s Road Back to Form

Xabi Alonso’s return to Real Madrid as head coach has come with high expectations and, recently, mounting scrutiny. The narrow win in Greece arrived at a critical moment, following a concerning dip in form that saw Los Blancos falter both domestically and in Europe. However, Alonso insists he is handling the intense pressure “much more calmly than you might expect.” He emphasized his experience, stating, “I’m no novice at this, and I know the road is long. It’s not always a bed of roses, but you have to be demanding, self-critical, and always look ahead.”

Champions League Thriller: Real Madrid Survive Olympiacos Test

Real Madrid were stunned early in Piraeus when Olympiacos’s Chiquinho opened the scoring with a spectacular volley in the eighth minute. Yet, the visitors showed resilience, orchestrating a powerful response led by Kylian Mbappé, who scored a stunning hat-trick within just seven minutes. This quick turnaround set the tone for a wild contest.

Despite Madrid’s early dominance, Olympiacos refused to yield. Substitute Mehdi Taremi narrowed the gap in the 52nd minute, but Mbappé soon struck again—his fourth of the night and ninth of the Champions League campaign. The Greek champions added further drama late on, with Ayoub El Kaabi’s header in the 81st minute sparking hopes of a comeback. In the frantic closing minutes, Olympiacos pressed hard, but Alonso’s men held firm to secure a vital win and break their winless spell.

Inside the Real Madrid Dressing Room: Unity and Resilience

Alonso praised the character and unity shown by his squad throughout the tough period, highlighting the importance of positive leadership in the face of adversity. “Besides the three points, I’m left with positive things that have happened behind the scenes. The unity, the commitment, and how we’ve learned to cope with difficult moments,” Alonso told reporters.

He also addressed pre-match rumors of unrest, particularly concerning star winger Vinícius Júnior. Reports had surfaced alleging strain in the relationship between Alonso and Vinícius, even suggesting the Brazilian was considering his future at the club. Alonso, however, was quick to dispel these notions, lauding Vinícius’s performance against Olympiacos.

Vinícius Júnior Shines Amid Speculation

Vinícius Júnior delivered two vital assists to Mbappé and had a goal ruled out for offside, tying him with Karim Benzema as the club’s second all-time top Champions League assist provider—only behind Cristiano Ronaldo. Alonso expressed admiration: “I’m really sorry about the disallowed goal. It was a typical move of his, and would have been a boost. But his combination with Kylian, the two assists, his impact—these are all huge positives for us.”

Despite injury setbacks—Eduardo Camavinga’s halftime exit and Raul Asencio’s hamstring discomfort—Madrid’s attacking flair and team spirit prevailed.

Real Madrid Focused on Upcoming Challenges

While the Olympiacos victory eased some immediate pressure, the challenges continue for Real Madrid. Alonso acknowledged the demanding schedule ahead, featuring several away fixtures before returning to the Santiago Bernabéu. “Now we have to visit Girona, then Bilbao. The schedule is packed, but we’re prepared to face it,” said Alonso. Madrid remains atop La Liga, despite recent slips at Rayo Vallecano and Elche, and their pursuit of Champions League glory is back on track.

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Opinion: Alonso’s Composure Is Madrid’s Hidden Strength

Xabi Alonso’s calm approach in turbulent times is exactly what Real Madrid needs. His focus on unity and resilience, coupled with big performances from key players like Mbappé and Vinícius, suggests Los Blancos have the character to overcome adversity. If Alonso continues to foster this atmosphere, Madrid fans have every reason to believe in a successful season ahead.