Madrid need statement win to end recent wobble and protect La Liga lead | OneFootball

Real Madrid return from the international break knowing they cannot allow their recent wobble to develop into anything more damaging as they resume their La Liga campaign at Elche on Sunday.

A goalless draw with Rayo Vallecano has trimmed their advantage at the top of the table, with Barcelona using Madrid’s slip to reduce the gap and increase the pressure on Xabi Alonso’s side.

Madrid are top with 31 points from 12 matches, yet the stutter has arrived at a moment when their schedule becomes more demanding and when momentum is crucial.

The draw with Vallecano highlighted a lack of cutting edge that has not often been associated with a team containing Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior.

Madrid created half-chances but struggled to force real openings, and Augusto Batalla repeatedly denied them in a match that never moved beyond a scrappy rhythm.

Alonso has received early-season praise but now faces the first flicker of external pressure, with scrutiny of Vinicius intensifying and whispers about broader squad management emerging during the break.

Madrid’s response at Elche carries significance beyond the immediate three points.

Elche have exceeded expectations after winning promotion last season. They are 11th after a composed start built on resilience rather than sustained attacking output.

They have not won a league match since late September but have remained competitive, staying unbeaten at home across their first six fixtures.

Their form has been steady but not spectacular, and their winless run reflects a team capable of organisation but lacking a consistent threat.

Madrid’s historical record in this fixture offers further encouragement, with 35 victories from 53 previous meetings and a long stretch without defeat to Elche.

Their eagerness to correct their recent dip requires a focused approach as they attempt to re-establish the authority that briefly slipped before the break.