Real Madrid handed Espanyol their first defeat of the season, securing a comfortable 2–0 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu thanks to two spectacular long-range efforts from Éder Militão and Kylian Mbappé.
Makeshift defence holds firm
Four days after a tough Champions League comeback, Xabi Alonso opted to rotate his squad, deploying a makeshift backline with Raúl Asencio and Dani Carvajal. Despite being tested early, Madrid’s defence held firm and the hosts soon grabbed control of the game, patiently probing Espanyol’s disciplined low block. The breakthrough came from an unlikely source in the 22nd minute, as Militão unleashed a right-footed missile from 30 yards out into the top corner.
Mbappé atones for miss in style
Mbappé missed a glorious opportunity to double the lead just before halftime but made up for it just two minutes into the second half. After a blistering run and pass from Vinícius Júnior, the Frenchman fired a show-stopping strike from distance to claim his seventh goal of the season.
Bellingham and Camavinga return
Although there were no more goals, the home crowd had plenty to cheer about in the closing minutes as Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga both logged their first minutes of the season, returning from lengthy injury spells. This victory not only extended Madrid’s winning streak to six matches in all competitions but also showcased their ability to dominate while welcoming back key players, sending a powerful message to their La Liga rivals.