Real Madrid stormed back from the September international break with a 2-1 La Liga win on the road at Real Sociedad.
Victory in San Sebastian makes it four league wins from four for new boss Xabi Alonso since the start of the 2025/26 campaign.
However, the visitors were forced to battle, despite first half goals from Kylian Mbappe and Arda Guler, with Dean Huijsen sent off on 32 minutes.
The Spain international was shown a straight red card for fouling Mikel Oyarzabal with the match officials deeming him to be the last man.
Alonso objected to the call in his post-match interview, claiming Eder Militao was in position to cover, and stating match referee Jesus Gil Manzano’s explanation was unconvincing.
The away side showed real grit late on, as Oyarzabal scored from the penalty spot, with vice captain Fede Valerde rolled off the bench at half time.
Alonso opted against starting his No.8 in the Basque Country, following a long trip back from international duty with Uruguay, and he indicated these results build title charges.
“Today I had to sit on the bench and watch my teammates fight with a man down, which was admirable. They controlled the game very well in the first half,” as per Mundo Deportivo.
“Obviously, nobody wants to be sent off, but that’s just football. From the bench, it seemed like Militao was also there to challenge for the ball. But the important thing is the team showed that pride in fighting to take the three points.
“Courtois was also very alert in several instances, to stop one-on-one situations. Sometimes these are the games that win you leagues.”
Up next for Real Madrid is the start of their UEFA Champions League campaign, at home to Marseille on September 16, before a league clash against Espanyol also in Madrid four days later.
