Militão and Alaba Shine as Real Madrid Defeats WSG Tirol

Real Madrid secured a convincing victory over WSG Tirol in their latest pre-season friendly, showcasing the return of key defenders Éder Militão and David Alaba. Both players have faced injury challenges in recent seasons, but their participation in the match signals a promising boost for the club as they prepare for the upcoming LaLiga campaign.

Militão Opens Scoring in Innsbruck

In Innsbruck, Austria, Militão, 27, opened the scoring with a notable looping header. This goal marks a significant moment for the centre-back, who has struggled with injuries, featuring in only 22 LaLiga matches over the last two seasons due to serious knee injuries. Alaba, who also faced a disrupted season, was substituted into the match after 62 minutes, taking on a midfield role—a position he has played previously with both Real Madrid and the Austria national team.

“I’m feeling much better,” Alaba shared with Real Madrid TV following the match. “I’m almost there, 100%, I’m training well.” His return to form is critical for a team that has relied heavily on both players in past campaigns.

Alaba Adjusts to New Role

Alaba’s adaptation to a midfield role under coach Xabi Alonso has been noteworthy. During this pre-season, he has been deployed in this position for the second time, following a previous match against Leganés. “It’s different, that’s clear,” Alaba remarked. “It isn’t my position, but I know this position from before. It’s been a lot of years, but I know it a bit.”

Militão has demonstrated impressive form throughout pre-season, including a remarkable goal from inside his own half against Leganés, which he later celebrated on social media. Following the match against Tirol, he said, “I’m helping the team, doing what I love. It’s taken a while, but the time has come, and the best thing is being back.”

Real Madrid’s attacking display was further highlighted by performances from other players, including two goals and an assist from one of their substitutes. In addition, Arda Güler showcased his talent by hitting the woodwork twice during the match.

The LaLiga season is set to commence this weekend, with Real Madrid kicking off the 2025-26 season at their home ground, the Santiago Bernabéu, against an opponent yet to be disclosed.