Result and decisive moment
Real Madrid defeated Espanyol 2-1 in Cornellà. Carlos Espí's goal came in the 90th minute, with a penalty that gave the white shirts the three points and prevented the team's first failure since Mourinho's return.
Match development
Espanyol started the season well and kept the pressure during the first half. However, Real Madrid remained comfortable in the second half, relying on the depth of the bench. Diomande, Cucurella and, above all, Espí were decisive, while the locals lost much threat as starters were rotated.
Key players
Real Madrid had Dumfries, Konaté and Bernardo Silva in the starting XI, but the team remained limited in creation and based its threat on set-piece plays. Vinícius insisted on drifting, which penalised the team. Bellingham and Güler were also active, with Güler in the centre of the penalty area.
The goal play
Espí's goal was a penalty executed with precision. The former Levante striker, who debuted with a goal, cut and almost scored on an empty net before sending a slash to the heart of an Espanyol that deserved more. The goal came in the final stretch of the match, when Real Madrid was already in the final stretch.
Match conclusion
Real Madrid managed to maintain the numerical advantage and stayed ahead. The team relied on Mbappé and the bench depth to close the game. The final 2-1 result reflects Real Madrid's ability to seize opportunities in critical moments.
