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Real Madrid went to Alaves on Sunday desperately needing a win to keep their league challenge on track and potentially save coach Xabi Alonso from the sack.
Madrid had won two of their last eight games in all competitions to fall behind Barcelona in the title race and damage their prospects of a top-eight finish in the Champions League.
Alonso was under huge pressure and had to cope with a crippling injury list in Vitoria, with at least six players not available and another three suspended.
Alaves were 11th following last their 1-0 home win over Real Sociedad on December 6.
