On a day that began with white handkerchiefs and ended with a sigh of relief, Real Madrid defeated relegation-threatened Levante 2-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu. The win marks the first league victory for new head coach Alvaro Arbeloa, who celebrated his 43rd birthday by stabilizing a club reeling from one of the most turbulent weeks in its modern history.
The atmosphere inside the Bernabeu was toxic long before kick-off. Following Sunday’s Super Cup loss, the sacking of Xabi Alonso, and Wednesday’s humiliating Copa del Rey exit to second-division Albacete, the fans made their displeasure known.
Protests: Sections of the crowd waved white handkerchiefs and directed loud chants at president Florentino Perez, calling for his resignation.
Targeted players: To the surprise of many, even pillars like Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr., and Federico Valverde were met with vociferous boos during the team announcements and early touches.
The emotional toll: Vinicius Jr. was reportedly seen visibly emotional in the tunnel before the match, though he later acknowledged the fans who chose to support him during the game.
Real Madrid looked like a team carrying the psychological scars of the past week. They struggled to break down a well-organized Levante block, generating a meagre 0.29 xG in the first period. Kylian Mbappe had the best chance after a pinpoint long ball from Asencio, but his volley whistled wide.
Recognizing the lack of creativity, Arbeloa made a proactive double change at halftime, introducing Arda Guler and Franco Mastantuono. The shift paid immediate dividends as Madrid’s pressing became more aggressive.
The breakthrough (58’): Mbappe was hauled down in the box by Dela. The Frenchman stepped up to coolly convert the penalty, marking his 19th league goal of the season.
The cushion (65’): Asencio continued his remarkable week, rising highest to meet a perfectly flighted corner from Arda Guler to power a header home for 2-0.
While the three points provide a temporary shield for Florentino Perez and Alvaro Arbeloa, the underlying tension remains. Madrid’s play was still far from the fluid "Galactico" standard expected by the demanding Madridistas.
The team now turns its focus to a critical European encounter against Monaco this Tuesday. With high-stakes fixtures against Villarreal and Benfica looming, Arbeloa must find a way to reconcile the rift between the stands and the pitch if he is to survive the high-pressure environment of the Bernabeu.
Elimination from the Copa del Rey by second-tier Albacete.
Loss of the Spanish Super Cup to rivals Barcelona.
The sudden sacking of fan-favorite manager Xabi Alonso.
Perceived lack of effort from star players like Vinicius Jr. and Bellingham.
