Substitute David Alaba scored a direct free kick to lead Real Madrid to a 2-1 win over hosts Almeria at the start of both teams’ campaigns in the Spanish Football League.

Real Madrid – defending their title in the Spanish league – missed plenty of chances against newly promoted Almeria in light of the clear brilliance of the Andalusian club’s goalkeeper Fernando Martinez.

Almeria took an early lead thanks to their Belgian striker Larky Ramazani, who capitalized on Real Madrid’s defensive mistakes in the sixth minute of the game to score the first goal.

Tactical team finish in net, Almeria shock Real Madrid with an early goal

#LaLiga #RealMadrid Almeria pic.twitter.com/oME4cSLHk4

— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS) August 14, 2022

Despite several attempts by the team’s stars led by Frenchman Karim Benzema and Brazilian Vinicius Junior, the Royal Club could not equalize during the first half.

Real Madrid fans waited until the 61st minute to see an equalizer from Spaniard Lucas Vazquez.

Vasquez’s goal equalized for Real Madrid#RealMadrid Almeria pic.twitter.com/ElP8LmjVuV

— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS) August 14, 2022

In the 74th minute, substitute Austrian David Alaba scored the winning goal with a direct free kick that beat the brilliant goalkeeper Martinez.

A goal from Alaba’s first touch#RealMadrid Almeria pic.twitter.com/jWZRpcqcv1

— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS) August 14, 2022

Almeria are winless in their first match in the league since being promoted from the second division, with Real Madrid picking up their first 3 points to begin their campaign looking to defend last season’s crown.