The curtain is poised to rise on the 2025-26 La Liga season, and all eyes will inevitably be on Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid. Here, footballing giants Real Madrid are slated to commence their campaign on Tuesday, August 19, hosting Osasuna. This opening fixture carries significant weight, not merely as the season`s kickoff, but as Real Madrid`s definitive statement of intent following a valiant, though ultimately second-place, finish last season.
The Quest for La Liga Supremacy
Last season saw Real Madrid finish just four points shy of Barcelona, a margin that undoubtedly fuels their hunger for redemption. The club`s strategic positioning and pre-season preparations suggest a team ready to assert dominance from the very first whistle. Their recent 4-0 triumph over Austrian side WSG Tirol in a pre-season friendly showcased a confident attack and solid defense, signaling readiness for competitive action. This isn`t just a match; it`s the beginning of a renewed pursuit for the Spanish top-flight title.
Kylian Mbappe: The New Dawn at the Bernabeu
Perhaps the most compelling narrative surrounding this fixture, and indeed the entire upcoming season, revolves around Kylian Mbappe. While the official start of the campaign is often a measured affair, for Real Madrid, it appears set to be a spectacle. Mbappe, fresh off a dazzling inaugural La Liga season where he netted an astounding 31 goals in 34 league appearances—earning him the Golden Boot—is expected to be the spearhead of Madrid`s formidable attack. His additional seven goals in Champions League play further underscore his prolificacy.
Mbappe`s form heading into this season has been nothing short of exceptional. Reports indicate a continuation of the blistering pace that saw him score in eight consecutive matches from April to June, securing multiple goals in three of those fixtures. His two goals against WSG Tirol in the recent friendly served as a potent reminder of the danger he poses. For Osasuna, facing this iteration of Kylian Mbappe in the season opener is, to put it mildly, a significant challenge. One might even suggest it’s a rather unfortunate draw for their initial foray into competitive football.
Osasuna`s Uphill Battle
Osasuna, who concluded the previous season in ninth place, arrive at the Bernabeu having secured a respectable 3-0 pre-season victory against La Liga 2 side Mirandes. While this result provides some momentum, the challenge presented by Real Madrid on their home turf is of an entirely different magnitude. Football analysts have pointed to Osasuna`s perceived lack of squad depth and a quiet off-season in terms of major acquisitions. This context positions them as clear underdogs in a match where their resilience and tactical discipline will be tested to their absolute limits.
The contrast between the two squads is stark. Real Madrid, with a full complement of established stars and, crucially, a motivated Kylian Mbappe leading the line, are anticipated to unleash a relentless offensive onslaught. The objective for Osasuna will be to contain this attacking prowess, disrupt Madrid`s rhythm, and perhaps, with a touch of fortune and tactical brilliance, capitalize on any rare opportunities that arise.
Anticipation for a Goal-Laden Encounter
Given Real Madrid`s potent attacking arsenal and their desire to kick-start the season with authority, expectations are high for a substantial goal tally. The home side`s intent to demonstrate their championship credentials from day one suggests they will be pushing for a commanding performance. The Santiago Bernabeu crowd, eager to witness the team`s renewed vigor and, undoubtedly, Mbappe`s continued brilliance, will provide an electric atmosphere, pushing the team forward.
The 2025-26 La Liga season promises excitement, and the opening fixture featuring Real Madrid against Osasuna stands as an early indicator of the league`s competitive landscape. For Real Madrid, it is an opportunity to lay down a marker; for Osasuna, a true test of character against one of Europe`s footballing titans.
Adrian Whitmore