Real Madrid vs Osasuna LaLiga 2025: How to Watch, Commentators and Expert Analysis

The opening game of the 2025-26 Spanish LaLiga season sees Real Madrid host Osasuna at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on Tuesday, 19 August 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 UK time (8 p.m. BST). Football fans in the UK can catch all the action live on Premier Sports 2 HD and via the Premier Sports Player streaming service, while viewers in the USA can watch through ESPN+. Canadian audiences will find the match on TSN Canada 4 / HD and TSN+. For international audiences including the Republic of Ireland, LaLiga TV International HD and Premier Sports 2 HD will feature the world feed commentators, providing a global perspective on this much-anticipated fixture.

This LaLiga opener carries the added narrative of Xabi Alonso's debut season as Real Madrid’s manager. The former Spanish international, highly respected for his playing career and tactical acumen, takes charge for his first competitive LaLiga game as head coach, following Carlo Ancelotti’s final season which ended without silverware. Alonso has notably praised young prospect Franco Mastantuono, who could make a Bernabéu debut in this match, underscoring the blend of youth and experience in his squad this season[1][5].

Broadcast Team and Commentary Details

For viewers relying on the US and Canadian broadcasts on ESPN+ and TSN, the presentation is led by Dan Thomas, a seasoned sports presenter with extensive experience covering football. The main commentary voice will be Rob Palmer, whose knowledge and clear delivery make him a respected figure in football broadcasting. Palmer is joined by co-commentator Stewart Robson, a former professional footballer celebrated for his insightful and often candid analysis. The punditry duo includes Craig Burley, a former Scotland international midfielder known for his astute tactical assessments, and Mario Suárez, a former LaLiga midfielder with in-depth knowledge of the Spanish game, offering expert commentary from a player’s perspective. Sid Lowe, a well-regarded football journalist with deep understanding of Spanish football culture, will provide on-the-ground reporting[1].

UK and Irish viewers tuning in to Premier Sports 2 will experience the fixture through the world feed commentators, the main voices being Phil Kitromilides as the primary commentator alongside an unlisted co-commentator due to legal restrictions; this global feed offers neutral, comprehensive commentary tailored for international audiences[1].

Key Players and Match Outlook

Real Madrid, bolstered by marquee signings this summer including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Franco Mastantuono, and Álvaro Carreras with a combined transfer spend of around €178 million, will rely on star forwards like Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior to dismantle Osasuna’s defence. Mbappé is currently a hot tip for scoring anytime during the match, with renowned sports analyst Jon Eimer backing him as one to watch heavily[2].

Osasuna enters as underdogs but will aim to breach Madrid’s rearguard with the likes of Ante Budimir leading their attack. Their aim will be to frustrate the hosts and seek points away from home, knowing that Real Madrid are overwhelming favourites to start with a win in the capital[2][3].

How and Where to Watch

Viewers in the UK need a Premier Sports 2 subscription or can stream via the Premier Sports Player platform to watch the match live. Coverage starts ahead of kick-off with pre-match build-up. For fans in the USA, ESPN+ offers a live stream with full presenter and commentator teams, requiring an active subscription. Similarly, Canadian fans can access TSN’s coverage on channels 4/HD and via TSN+ streaming.

Those following the match internationally can tune into LaLiga TV International HD, which utilises the world feed commentary team to provide a seamless experience with a focus on the Spanish league’s global fanbase[1].

About the Key Presenters and Commentators

Dan Thomas is a broadcaster with a strong background in presenting major sporting events, including football at the highest levels, known for his engaging and professional style. Rob Palmer has been a key voice in football commentary for years, bringing clear explanations and enthusiasm to live broadcasts. Stewart Robson, a former Arsenal and West Ham midfielder, provides depth informed by his playing career in England’s top flight. Craig Burley, a Scotland international who played as a midfielder at Chelsea and other clubs, has established himself as a sharp analyst on major networks. Finally, Mario Suárez, a former Atlético Madrid midfielder, brings intrinsic understanding of LaLiga and Spanish football culture, while Sid Lowe is internationally respected for his insightful journalism on Spanish football[1].

This expert team ensures viewers receive entertaining, informative, and tactical perspectives throughout the match and beyond, enriching the broadcast considerably.

For more information on the teams involved and the competition, visit the official LaLiga website, details on the broadcasters can be found on Premier Sports, and to learn more about ESPN+ broadcasting rights see ESPN.