Kylian Mbappé endured a night to forget as he received a straight red card for a reckless challenge during Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Deportivo Alavés at the Mendizorroza Stadium on Sunday. While Los Blancos managed to escape with three points, the match will be remembered more for Mbappé’s shocking dismissal than Eduardo Camavinga’s decisive first-half goal.

The tension was already building in a scrappy affair when, in the 38th minute, Mbappé lunged into a dangerous, studs-up tackle on Alavés midfielder Antonio Blanco. Initially shown a yellow card by referee José Luis Munuera, the decision was swiftly upgraded to red following a VAR review. The home fans erupted as the French forward made the long walk off the pitch, visibly frustrated after enduring a series of fouls throughout the opening half.

Just minutes before the incident, Real Madrid had taken the lead through Camavinga, who struck with precision in the 34th minute to silence the Alavés supporters. But Mbappé’s moment of madness changed the tone of the game. The challenge drew widespread criticism, with pundits comparing it to some of the ugliest fouls in recent La Liga memory.

Davide Ancelotti, deputizing for the suspended Carlo Ancelotti, conceded after the match that the red card was deserved but hinted that persistent fouling may have pushed Mbappé over the edge. Despite being down to ten men, Madrid showed resilience and composure to hold onto their slim lead. Thibaut Courtois was once again instrumental, making a string of late saves as Alavés pushed for an equalizer.

The win keeps Real Madrid within four points of league leaders Barcelona, but the consequences of Mbappé’s dismissal could prove costly. The French star is now expected to miss key upcoming domestic fixtures, including the highly anticipated Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.

Fortunately for Real Madrid, Mbappé’s suspension does not affect European competition. He will be eligible for the crucial Champions League quarter-final second leg against Arsenal, where Los Blancos will need a near-miracle to overturn a 3-0 deficit.

Though they left Vitoria-Gasteiz with all three points, Real Madrid’s victory was overshadowed by an ugly flashpoint involving their marquee playera moment that could have repercussions far beyond this single match.