# LaLiga season opener: Benzema double helps
The highly anticipated 2023/2024 LaLiga season burst into life this weekend, delivering an electrifying curtain-raiser that saw Real Madrid secure a crucial victory against Deportivo Alavés. In a match filled with early-season intensity and flashes of brilliance, it was none other than the talismanic Karim Benzema whose clinical double proved decisive, setting a clear precedent for Los Blancos’ title aspirations.
The atmosphere at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu was electric, palpable with the excitement of a new campaign. From the opening whistle, Real Madrid asserted their dominance, showcasing the fluid passing and high press characteristic of Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Midfield maestros Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos dictated the tempo, orchestrating attacks with surgical precision, while the defensive line, marshaled by Éder Militão, remained resolute against early Alavés forays.
It took until the 32nd minute for the deadlock to be broken, and it was a goal born from a moment of sheer individual brilliance combined with astute team play. Vinicius Jr., tormenting the Alavés right-back with his pace and trickery, delivered a perfectly weighted low cross into the penalty area. Anticipating the delivery with predatory instinct, Karim Benzema ghosted past his marker, meeting the ball with a first-time, left-footed finish that nestled into the bottom corner, leaving the Alavés goalkeeper with no chance. The Bernabéu erupted, celebrating not just the goal, but the return of their beloved striker’s formidable form.
The second half saw Alavés emerge with renewed vigour, pushing higher up the pitch and testing Real Madrid’s defensive resolve. Their efforts were rewarded in the 58th minute when a swift counter-attack culminated in a well-taken equalizer, momentarily silencing the home crowd and injecting a dose of tension into the proceedings. However, Real Madrid’s response was swift and emphatic, underlining their championship pedigree. Just ten minutes later, Benzema once again stepped into the spotlight. A clever one-two with Federico Valverde on the edge of the box created a sliver of space, and the French international needed no second invitation. His curling right-footed shot, executed with the precision of a seasoned marksman, sailed past the outstretched arms of the keeper and into the top corner, restoring Real Madrid’s lead and sending a clear message to their rivals.
With their lead re-established, Real Madrid tightened their grip on the match. Ancelotti’s tactical adjustments, bringing on fresh legs, helped control the midfield and stifle Alavés’ attempts to mount a second comeback. A late goal from Rodrygo, capitalizing on a defensive error in the 88th minute, added gloss to the scoreline, sealing a comfortable 3-1 victory and ensuring all three points remained in the capital.
This opening day triumph is more than just a win; it’s a powerful statement of intent. Karim Benzema’s two goals underscore his enduring importance as Real Madrid’s primary goal scorer and leader on the pitch. His clinical finishing and intelligent movement remain crucial for unlocking stubborn defences. Beyond Benzema, the collective performance, particularly the midfield’s control and the defence’s resilience after conceding, bodes well for the challenges ahead. As the season progresses, this strong start, spearheaded by their captain’s impressive double, will undoubtedly instil confidence and lay a solid foundation for Real Madrid’s pursuit of the LaLiga title.
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