Madrid's Rising Defender Valdepeñas Makes History in His First Start
Victor Valdepeñas, aged 19, started for Real Madrid against Deportivo Alavés, marking his first appearance in the starting XI. Coach Xabi Alonso trusted him at left-back amid injury woes. Opta noted he is the third-youngest Madrid starter in 21st-century La Liga history, behind Varane and Hakimi. Madrid sits second in La Liga with 36 points, while Alavés are 12th with 18. The youngster's debut signals a promising future for the club.