We criticize Madrid a lot. But is it really necessary to criticize so much? At the end of the day, they managed to secure the victory and get 3 points. Isn't that enough?
Madrid didn't win by a big margin. It's also true that Madrid's attacks were a bit weak. But this was Xabi Alonso's first match in La Liga. He needs time to adapt to the new environment. Alonso is still not completely aware of the way La Liga rival's gameplay . Gradually, he will correct his mistakes. And Madrid's performance will also become stronger. The new manager should be given enough time.
Madrid didn't perform well, they held and controlled the game but it didn't result to much goals. Without minding the goals as you said, the most important is them securing 3 points in the match, the season is just beginning with lots of time to build perfection in their attack line.
I also believe Madrid will be coming back to full action, with more games ahead Madrid will be more of a competitive rival than they were last season. Any team facing them shouldn't take the mentality of last season to this season because it will be on another level of performance.
I will only say that if Alonso is given enough time, he can definitely do something good. He has dominated the Bundesliga with the help of a mediocre team like Leverkusen. Real Madrid's squad is much stronger and more organized. So Xabi's chances of success here are also higher. La Liga has just started. Some matches Madrid's overall performance will be unstable. Gradually Alonso will definitely bring stability to Madrid's performance. Madrid fans should be patient.