Mourinho Begins Second Real Madrid Stint with Hard-Fought Win

Real Madrid opened the 2026–2027 preparation period under newly appointed manager José Mourinho with a narrow victory against Alcorcón at the closed-door Alfredo Di Stéfano Stadium, according to club reports. Played under temperatures reaching 33 degrees Celsius, the fixture remained scoreless until the 70th minute when the senior squad departed, leaving the club’s La Fábrica academy products to secure a 1-0 win courtesy of a penalty converted by Yáñez.

Mourinho Deploys Mix of Seniors and Youth in Valdebebas Return

Returning to Valdebebas for the first time in 13 years, Mourinho kept his initial starting lineup straightforward, fielding nine available first-team players out of ten present, according to match observations. Fede Valverde watched from the tribune alongside Éder Militão and Rodrygo, having completed just two training sessions following his Wednesday arrival. Wearing pink training gear with graying hair, the Portuguese coach maintained a calm demeanor, leaving the bench only once during the opening 20 minutes to issue low-voiced instructions.

Despite joining training only on Monday, Arda Güler earned a place in the starting XI alongside goalkeeper and captain Lunin. The lineup featured Trent Alexander-Arnold, Asensio, Huijsen, and Carreras across the defense, Cestero anchoring the defensive midfield, Camavinga and Güler in central roles, Mastantuono on the right wing, Gonzalo up front, and Gabri Veiga operating on the left.

Early Penalty Miss and Tactical Control

Real Madrid started aggressively as Mastantuono forced a penalty just 51 seconds into the match after driving down the right flank, according to pitchside reports. Güler immediately stepped up to take the spot-kick ahead of Gonzalo’s request, but the Alcorcón goalkeeper successfully blocked the attempt. Mastantuono, Cestero, and Gonzalo stood out as the most effective performers during an opening half defined by tactical organization and high pressing.

Academy Players Secure Late Victory Behind Closed Doors

Following the 20th minute, a media blackout went into effect as journalists were removed from the stadium and the official club channel broadcast was cut. Reporting indicates that Güler attempted to make up for his early penalty miss through active playmaking and set-piece execution, while Mastantuono continued spearheading attacks. At the 70-minute mark, with the scoreboard still reading 0-0, Mourinho substituted every senior player on the pitch.

The decisive breakthrough arrived late through a second penalty converted by Yáñez. Despite protests from the Alcorcón technical staff over the referee’s decision, the match concluded with a 1-0 win for Real Madrid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who scored the winning goal for Real Madrid against Alcorcón?

Academy player Yáñez scored the decisive goal from a late penalty kick after the senior squad was substituted off in the 70th minute.

Why was Fede Valverde absent from the starting lineup?

Fede Valverde watched the match from the stands because he had only completed two training sessions following his Wednesday arrival.

How long had it been since José Mourinho last managed at Valdebebas?

Mourinho’s appearance marked his return to Valdebebas after a 13-year absence.