Real Madrid looks to maintain its unbeaten run in La Liga openers against Osasuna
Real Madrid begins its new La Liga campaign this weekend against Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabéu, looking to maintain its remarkable record in season openers. Los Merengues have not lost a league debut since 2008 and hope to restart a winning streak after last year’s opening draw.
Unbeaten Run Under Threat
Since their 2-1 defeat to Deportivo La Coruña on August 31, 2008, Real Madrid have gone 16 straight seasons without losing an opening fixture. During that span, they have collected 11 wins and five draws, with victories over teams such as Real Zaragoza, Betis, Córdoba, Real Sociedad, Getafe, Celta, Alavés, Almería, and Athletic Club.
The only interruptions have been five hard-fought draws, including last year’s 1-1 stalemate against Mallorca, when Rodrygo scored first but Muriqi equalized. That result ended a run of seven consecutive opening-day wins.
Bernabéu Returns to Host the Opener
This season’s clash is particularly significant as it marks a return to the Santiago Bernabéu for an opening match after six consecutive away debuts due to ongoing stadium renovations. Madridistas expect the atmosphere to signal the start of a new era, especially under Xabi Alonso, who makes his first league debut as manager at the iconic venue.
The last time Real Madrid lost a La Liga opener at the Bernabéu was nearly four decades ago, in 1984, when Barcelona won 3-0 under Terry Venables.
Historic Rivalry with Osasuna
This will be the fifth time Real Madrid faces Osasuna in an opening round. In the previous four encounters, Los Blancos secured three wins and one draw, all at the Bernabéu. The most dramatic came when Míchel Salgado struck late to cancel out Milosevic’s goal in a tense draw.
Pressure to Deliver
For the new season, Madrid’s challenge is not just to protect its unbeaten opening-day record but also to set the tone for a title run. After last season’s shaky start, fans are eager to see whether the squad can impose dominance early and regain consistency at their newly renovated home.
