Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid welcome Osasuna to the Bernabéu in their La Liga opener. Here’s how to watch Real Madrid vs Osasuna live, plus lineup insights and predictions.
Real Madrid vs Osasuna: A Season to Reinvent
Real Madrid are kicking off their 2025–26 La Liga campaign in search of redemption under new manager Xabi Alonso. Despite a disappointing 2024–25 that yielded zero trophies, Alonso inherits a club determined to show a new identity. Their recent managerial change adds intrigue to the curtain-raiser against Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu. ([turn0news19])
Meanwhile, Osasuna, under coach Alessio Lisci, arrive confident—and eager to punch above their weight—following solid preseason and a balanced approach ready to challenge at one of Spanish football’s toughest venues.
Squad Updates: Who’s In—and Out
Real Madrid
Madrid have announced their squad for this fixture, featuring strong names like Courtois, Militão, Valverde, Tchouaméni, Vinícius Jr., and Mbappé. However, key absences include Bellingham, Camavinga, Mendy, Endrick, and Rüdiger—who is currently suspended. Center-backs Militão and youthful Huijsen are likely starters. ([turn0news23], [turn0news26])
A notable highlight: 18-year-old Franco Mastantuono has impressed in training—enough to warrant inclusion despite limited preseason sessions. Manchester City showed interest; Madrid chose to integrate him early under Alonso’s vision.
Osasuna
Osasuna are expected to field a competitive lineup, including striker Ante Budimir, who scored 24 goals last season. Coach Lisci confirmed Rubén García trained ahead of the match but may be used sparingly, while the team emphasizes tactical discipline and counter threats.
🗺 ¡Estos son los horarios del partido!@emirates pic.twitter.com/ayCcZ20Qxy
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) August 19, 2025
Tactical Preview & Predictions
Real Madrid Strategy
- Alonso’s first La Liga match as coach.
- Likely to field a flexible formation (4-3-3 shifting into 3-5-2 or 4-4-2 as needed).
- Star duo Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. expected to provide the attack spark. Mbappé, in particular, is touted as a favorite to score first.
Osasuna Strategy
- Aim to control the game’s tempo through balance and tactical discipline.
- Lisci believes his team can “hurt” Madrid if they translate preseason form into performance.
Predictions
- SI suggests Real will likely extend their 23-game unbeaten streak against Osasuna with a 2–0 win.
- The Independent backs a win-to-nil scenario and even projects Mbappé to score first.
- SportsGambler offers a nuanced view, giving Osasuna a chance to be competitive and recommending certain handicap bets.
How to Watch Real Madrid vs Osasuna
- Kick-off: Tuesday, 19 August 2025 at 21:00 CEST / 3:00 PM ET
- TV & Streaming:
- Spain: DAZN La Liga
- USA: ESPN Deportes, ESPN+, FuboTV
- UK, Canada, Mexico: Varies by region—check local listings
- Live updates and stats: Follow ESPN, SofaScore, or Managing Madrid for real-time coverage, lineups, and odds.
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Bigger Picture: Rivalry & Title Implications
- Real Madrid dominated these fixtures historically: 62 wins in 95 matches, with Osasuna failing to win at the Bernabéu since 2004.
- Madrid’s season now begins with high stakes—bounce back from the Club World Cup loss and show early dominance in La Liga.
- Osasuna—who reached last year’s Copa del Rey final before losing to Madrid—are grouped as the underdog but capable of surprising if Madrid starts slowly.
Key Players to Watch
| Team | Key Players & Notes |
|---|---|
| Real Madrid | Mbappé (goal threat), Vinícius Jr., Valverde (midfield pivot), Militão/Huijsen (defensive leadership) |
| Osasuna | Ante Budimir (leading scorer), experienced midfield core led by Lisci |