Immediate Reaction: Real Madrid vs SevillaThis game summed up Real Madrid’s season in 90 minutes: a slow, disjointed start, moments where they looked second‑best, and then — almost inevitably — individual brilliance dragging them over the line. Sevilla pressed with purpose, created real danger, and forced Courtois into multiple big saves. Madrid didn’t control the match; they survived it.The turning point was Marcao’s red card. Up until then, Sevilla were very much in the game. After the sending‑off, Madrid finally imposed themselves, and the quality of Bellingham and Mbappé took over.It was a win, but not a convincing one.2025 Real Madrid Season in RetrospectThis match fits the broader pattern of Madrid’s season:• Results over performances — they keep winning, but rarely dominate.• Dependence on stars — Bellingham, Mbappé, and Courtois are carrying the load.• Structural issues — the team still looks uncomfortable building from the back.• Crowd frustration — the Bernabéu has whistled multiple times this season, including today.Madrid are top‑tier in terms of talent, but mid‑tier in terms of cohesion. This Sevilla match was another reminder that the team’s ceiling is high, but the floor is shaky.Analyzing Xabi Alonso’s Management, Lineup & TacticsThis game exposed both the strengths and weaknesses of Xabi’s approach.Lineup Choices• The midfield trio lacked balance — too many players wanting the ball to feet.• The fullbacks didn’t provide enough width, making Madrid predictable.• The front line relied heavily on individual actions rather than coordinated movements.Tactical Observations• Buildup issues: Sevilla’s press forced Madrid into rushed long balls.• Lack of verticality: Madrid were slow and horizontal in possession.• Reactive adjustments: Xabi’s best tactical moments came after the red card, not before.• Set‑piece preparation: Bellingham’s goal was clearly a rehearsed routine — one of the few structured attacking moments.Xabi’s ideas are visible, but the execution is inconsistent.Tactical Analysis of the Issues With This TeamThe Sevilla match highlighted Madrid’s recurring tactical flaws:1. Poor press resistanceSevilla repeatedly trapped Madrid in wide areas. The midfield spacing was off, and the centre‑backs had no clean outlets.2. Predictable attacking patternsEverything came through the middle. Without natural width, Sevilla simply clogged central zones and forced Madrid into low‑percentage shots.3. Disconnected pressingMadrid’s press was half‑hearted. Sevilla played through it too easily, especially in the first half.4. Vulnerable defensive transitionsEvery Sevilla counter looked dangerous until Courtois intervened. The midfield doesn’t protect the back line well enough.5. Tempo control issuesMadrid struggle to dictate the rhythm of games. They react to opponents rather than impose themselves.This match didn’t create new concerns — it confirmed existing ones.Does This Team Lack Motivation?There were long stretches where Madrid looked flat, almost bored. The intensity only rose after:• The opening goal• The red card• The crowd’s whistlesThat’s not the mentality of a fully locked‑in team. It feels like Madrid rely on “moments” rather than sustained effort. The talent is undeniable, but the hunger fluctuates.This Sevilla match had the energy of a team doing just enough.A Look at Future Upcoming GamesIf Madrid play like this against stronger opponents, they’ll be punished. The upcoming fixtures will test:• Whether Xabi can fix the buildup issues• Whether the midfield can find balance• Whether the team can sustain intensity for 90 minutes• Whether the reliance on Courtois and Mbappé is sustainableThis Sevilla match should be a warning: the results are masking deeper problems.

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