In a pivotal Matchday 5 encounter, Real Madrid triumphed over Espanyol with a definitive score of 2-0 at the famed Santiago Bernabéu stadium. The Merengues took the lead with a goal from Éder Militão in the 21st minute, showcasing their early dominance. Shortly after the break, Kylian Mbappé extended the lead to 2-0, scoring just one minute into the second half.
Vinicius Júnior nearly added to the scoreline in the 65th minute but was denied by the post, showcasing Espanyol’s frail defense.
Kylian Mbappé emerged as the standout performer, netting one goal, taking eight shots on target, and completing thirty-three successful passes. His performance was a key element to Madrid’s success. Éder Militão also had an impressive game, scoring and retrieving two balls for his team.
Under the tactical setup of manager Xabier Alonso Olano, Real Madrid deployed a 4-4-2 formation with Thibaut Courtois in goal, supported by Dani Carvajal, Raúl Asencio, Éder Militão, and Álvaro Carreras as defenders. In the midfield, Franco Mastantuono, Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and Vinicius Júnior worked tirelessly, while the frontline featured Gonzalo García alongside Mbappé.
Espanyol, managed by José González Álvarez, took to the field in a 4-3-3 formation, with Marko Dmitrovic defending the goal, flanked by Omar el Hilali, Fernando Calero, Leandro Cabrera, and Carlos Romero in defense. Their midfield trio was comprised of Pol Lozano, Urko Gonzalez, and Edu Expósito, with the attacking trident consisting of Tyrhys Dolan, Roberto Fernández, and Javi Puado.
The match was officiated by referee Juan Martínez Munuera.
Looking ahead, Real Madrid will face Levante in their next league match, while Espanyol prepares to welcome Valencia at home. With this victory, the home team has moved to the top of the league standings with 15 points, while Espanyol sits in third place with 10 points.
Substitutions for Real Madrid:
60’ 2T – Gonzalo García replaced by Arda Güler
76’ 2T – Vinicius Júnior replaced by Rodrygo, Franco Mastantuono replaced by Brahim Díaz, Javi Puado replaced by Kike García
88’ 2T – Kylian Mbappé replaced by Jude Bellingham, Aurélien Tchouaméni replaced by Eduardo Camavinga
Yellow Cards for Real Madrid:
36’ 1T Aurélien Tchouaméni (Unsporting conduct)
29’ 2T Franco Mastantuono (Unsporting conduct)
Substitutions for Espanyol:
63’ 2T – Pol Lozano replaced by Jofre Carreras, Tyrhys Dolan replaced by Charles Pickel, Edu Expósito replaced by Luca Koleosho
83’ 2T – Roberto Fernández replaced by Antoniu Roca