Real Madrid returns to action tonight against Alavés in their second match at the Santiago Bernabéu in just three days (9:00 p.m.; DAZN). Carlo Ancelotti’s squad faces their fourth game in ten days, continuing a demanding September schedule where they’ve already secured victories against Betis, Real Sociedad, Stuttgart, and Espanyol. Up next is a Madrid derby against Atlético this Sunday.

Real Madrid remains unbeaten at home, having won all four of their matches at the Bernabéu this season. The team is aiming for a fifth consecutive victory tonight, extending their impressive run of 38 unbeaten league games and eight official matches without a loss.

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Ancelotti acknowledged the challenges of the tight schedule, stating in a pre-match press conference: “Every game demands suffering, fighting, and competing, but we are improving with each match.”

Kylian Mbappé, included in the 20-man squad, has been pivotal to Madrid’s success. The French star has scored five goals in the last four matches, contributing to the team’s tally of 18 goals across eight official games this season.

Alavés, arriving in good form, will be a tough opponent. The Vitorian side has won three of their last four league games, including victories over Sevilla (2-1), Las Palmas (2-0), and Real Sociedad (1-2). Toni Martínez and Carlos Vicente, both with two goals each, lead the attack for Alavés as they seek to upset Madrid’s dominant home form.