Real Madrid has extended its winning start to the La Liga season, defeating Espanyol 2-0 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday. Goals from Eder Militao and Kylian Mbappe in each half secured the win, making it five victories in five matches for Xabi Alonso's side. The result cements Madrid's lead atop the standings, putting them five points clear of both Espanyol and second-place Barcelona, who have a game in hand.
Espanyol defense attempted to nullify Real Madrid's attack with a low block. However, it took a moment of individual brilliance from Eder Militao to break the deadlock in the 22nd minute, with a long-range drive from 30 yards out, that flew into the top corner and left goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic with no chance. This was his first goal in nearly a year.
Just after the halftime break, Kylian Mbappe doubled Real's lead. A defensive lapse from Espanyol allowed the Frenchman to fire a precise shot from the edge of the box into the bottom corner. The goal, assisted by Vinicius Junior, marked Mbappe’s seventh goal in six games this season and effectively sealed the game for the hosts. Xabi Alonso, said, "When you are facing a defense set well inside its area, you have to try from long range. Militão's goal was very good, and Kylian scored in transition. We are taking steps forward and continue to grow."
The match also featured the return of England midfielder Jude Bellingham, who made his first appearance since undergoing shoulder surgery in the summer. He came on as a late substitute in the 88th minute for Mbappe. Along with Eduardo Camavinga. Vinicius Junior, was back in the starting lineup after being benched in a previous Champions League match. The Brazilian was a constant threat on the left flank, assisting Mbappe’s goal and hitting the post himself in the 65th minute.
Espanyol's entered the match undefeated and in third place, only to fail at the Bernabeu. The visitors struggled to create scoring opportunities, with Madrid's defense holding firm. Dani Carvajal told Real Madrid TV, "We suffered very little defensively against a well organised, very intense opponent... We're still at the top of the table and we've achieved our goal today."
