Xabi Alonso admitted Real Madrid were pushed harder than expected despite edging past third-tier Talavera in a dramatic 3-2 victory in the Copa del Rey last 32 on Wednesday.
Kylian Mbappe proved decisive for Los Blancos, scoring twice to help Madrid avoid an upset. The France international opened the scoring from the penalty spot before sealing the win late on, firing a 20-yard effort past Jaime Gonzalez in the 88th minute to take his tally for the season to 28 goals.
Los Blancos appeared to be in control for large spells but were made to sweat after failing to put the game to bed. Alonso acknowledged the dangers of knockout football, insisting such scenarios are part of cup competitions.
“That’s what the cup is like. It happens to us and to other teams,” said Alonso.
“At 3-1, which was a key moment, we conceded and they pushed hard. Talavera came alive. We controlled the first half well, but not scoring the third goal left the game wide open.
“The objective was to qualify, and we did that, so I’m leaving satisfied and happy. But we were missing something we’ve talked about before; consistency and being more reliable over the full 90 minutes.
“We needed to close the game out. In these matches, anything can happen, and we have to show more maturity.”
Mbappe has now scored 58 goals for Real Madrid in the 2025 calendar year, leaving him just one short of Cristiano Ronaldo’s club record. Alonso was happy to single the Frenchman out for praise.
“He was decisive with both goals. Kylian always finds a way to score,” the Spanish tactician said. “The third goal was crucial, and that’s why we kept him on the field.
“The numbers are what they are. Rodrygo has also played an important role. We need other players to be that clinical as well. We’ve created plenty of chances all season and, without a doubt, we could have scored more goals.”
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