(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Real Madrid vs Osasuna: LaLiga 2025-26 Season Opener at the Bernabeu
The 2025-26 LaLiga season kicks off with an exciting clash as Real Madrid hosts Osasuna at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu. For the visiting ‘Rojillos’, it marks 21 years since their last league victory at this historic venue.
Historic Upset
On April 11, 2004, Osasuna stunned Real Madrid with a 3-0 victory, courtesy of goals from Valdo, Pablo García, and Moha. That result, against Carlos Queiroz’s side, remains their last league triumph at the Bernabeu. Since then, Real Madrid has remained undefeated against Osasuna at home, winning 14 of their last 17 meetings and drawing three.
Managerial Debuts
Both teams enter the season with new managers: Alessio Lisci for Osasuna and Xabi Alonso for Real Madrid. Alonso, who previously led the Whites in the Club World Cup, faces his first top-flight league match at home, while Lisci aims to replicate Osasuna’s 2004 magic.
Memorable Madrid-Osasuna Clashes
Over the years, clashes between the two sides have been intense. At El Sadar, memorable moments include Savo Milošević threatening Sergio Ramos’ World Cup spot and controversial referee decisions, including the infamous Perez Burrull incident in 2009.
At the Bernabeu, Real Madrid’s dominance has been clear. Highlights include:
-
7-1 win in 2011 under Jose Mourinho, with Ronaldo scoring a hat-trick and Benzema adding a brace.
-
5-2 victory in 2016, featuring goals from Cristiano Ronaldo, Danilo, Ramos, Pepe, and Modrić.
-
Recent 4-0 wins in Osasuna’s last two visits.
What to Watch This Season
Lisci will be determined to break the Bernabeu streak, while Real Madrid looks to maintain their stronghold against the visiting side. Fans can expect a thrilling opener full of intensity, history, and top-level football.
With the season beginning at the Santiago Bernabeu, all eyes are on whether Osasuna can recreate the 2004 magic or if Madrid continues its home dominance.
