Three biggest takeaways from Real Madrid's 1-0 win vs Alaves

Real Madrid bounced back from their Champions League horror show by picking up a victory in LaLiga against Alaves, but it was hardly a performance to remember.
Deportivo Alaves v Real Madrid CF - La Liga EA Sports
Deportivo Alaves v Real Madrid CF - La Liga EA Sports | Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/GettyImages

In the aftermath of a crushing humiliation to Arsenal midweek, Real Madrid travelled to the Mendizorrotza Stadium in search of some momentum - what followed was 90 minutes of chaos, brilliance and a moment of total headloss as Real scrapped their way to a 1-0 victory against Alaves.

Whilst the overall performance was certainly not one that will have Madridista's singing, there were aspects of this fixture which will undoubtedly have been huge talking points for both good and bad reasons, as in true Real Madrid fashion this season - it was inconsistent all over.

1. Kylian Mbappé's moment of madness was nothing short of embarrassing

Kylian Mbapp
Deportivo Alaves v Real Madrid CF - La Liga EA Sports | Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/GettyImages

The opening chapter of Kylian Mbappé's Real Madrid story has certainly been one of a topsy-turvy nature. From the highs of his brilliant hat-trick against Manchester City, to the lows of missing a penalty in an invisible performance at Anfield - it hasn't been the perfect story thus far.

Whilst his performances of since the turn of the year have certainly been on an upward trajectory, the Frenchman had what can only be described as a moment of complete madness in the Basque country.

From kickoff, it was clear that Mbappé would be the subject of the expected roughousing a player of his quality would be used to. Alaves' defenders were touch tight, they ruffled him in every exchange - clearly aiming to unsettle him.

Real's number 9 does however hold responsibility too - with some multiple moments of poor touches, lack of anticipation and poor play all-round, he was cutting a very frustrated figure which would eventually lead to him making a disgraceful challenge on Antonio Blanco which saw him sent off.

For a player who is still very much aiming to win over fans, this moment will have certainly done him no favours with naysayers - especially given the implications that this could have on the remaining LaLiga games and potentially the Copa Del Rey final.

As many will be holding their breath to see what his punishment for this will be, there is no doubting that this could have a very damaging impact on Real's domestic hopes.

2. Eduardo Camavinga's performance brings conflicted feeling

Eduardo Camavinga
Deportivo Alaves v Real Madrid CF - La Liga EA Sports | Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/GettyImages

Much like his aforementioned compatriot, this season has been quite a frustrating one for both Eduardo Camavinga and Madridistas alike. Having struggled with injury issues, inconsistent game time and some subpar performances - he had an opportunity in this game to remind the world of his quality, especially after his midweek disaster when he was sent off against Arsenal.

The 22-year-old was deployed in a more advanced midfield role against Alaves, with Camavinga showcasing everything in his skillset that makes him one of the most exciting midfielders to watch in football.

Throughout the game, Camavinga was constantly involved in the middle of the park - making linebreaking runs, making more dribbles than anyone else. Alongside this, he put in a monstrous shift defensively, winning more duels than anyone else as well as winning the ball in dangerous areas further up the field.

With an already perfect performance, the Frenchman also scored a wonderful goal to top off what was a flawless afternoon in midfield - a statement made, a reminder given: Eduardo Camavinga still has everything to be a huge asset to Los Blancos.

For all the joy it would have bought Madridistas to see him very much at his best - particularly in a new role that he could thrive in - it is a great shame that we will not be able to see him potentially impact the second leg against Arsenal in midweek due to his suspension in the first leg.

3. An unexpected glimmer of hope

Dani Ceballos, Pau Cabanes
Deportivo Alaves v Real Madrid - LaLiga EA Sports | Soccrates Images/GettyImages

Real Madrid fans the world over will have rejoiced earlier this week when Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Dani Ceballos was fit and ready to play - but it was uncertain how much we could see after his recent layoff with injury.

The Spanish international may have only been on the field for a minute against Alaves, but even with so little time on the clock - Ceballos gave Los Blancos supporters a glimpse of what they have all been missing so much since he was struck down with injury.

In his own typical style, the midfielder received the ball - drawing in two of Alaves' players and effortlessly glided past them before drawing the foul. That composure, deft touch and control was there to see and it looked as if he hadn't missed a minute.

It is no secret that Real's recent struggles have in-part been caused by the absence of Ceballos, who's skillset is something that has become so imperative to keeping Real ticking over - helping to fill that void left by Toni Kroos after his retirement last summer.

His return could certainly help give Real the much needed control they will need to try and attempt the impossible against Arsenal, but whether he starts or plays select minutes - Dani Ceballos' return is certainly something to give Madridistas a new glimmer of hope.