Real Madrid extended their flawless start to the 2025-26 La Liga season with a 2-0 victory over Espanyol at the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday. The result keeps Carlo Ancelotti’s side on track with five wins from five, asserting their dominance at the top of the Spanish top flight.
Espanyol arrived in the capital hoping to frustrate the reigning champions with a disciplined low block. For much of the first half, their compact defensive setup limited Real Madrid’s ability to impose their trademark fluid attacking style. However, it took a moment of individual brilliance to break the deadlock.
In the 22nd minute, Brazilian defender Éder Militão unleashed a thunderous 30-yard strike into the top corner, leaving Espanyol goalkeeper completely helpless. The goal was a reminder of Militão’s growing influence on both ends of the pitch, and it underscored the quality of Real Madrid’s set-piece and long-range threat. Federico Valverde provided the assist, combining well with Vinícius Júnior to create the opening.
Espanyol attempted to regroup, staying compact in midfield and defence, but Real Madrid’s relentless pressure eventually forced a mistake. Just after the break, a defensive lapse left Kylian Mbappé unmarked at the edge of the penalty area. Vinícius Júnior provided a perfect pass, allowing the French forward to fire a precise shot into the near post, doubling the advantage in the 47th minute. The goal marked Mbappé’s seventh in six games across all competitions this season, reinforcing his status as a key figure in Real Madrid’s attack.
After the second goal, Real Madrid largely controlled the game, managing possession and frustrating Espanyol with patient build-up play. Despite occasional forays by the visitors, the home side’s defensive organisation ensured that Espanyol could not find a way back into the match.
England midfielder Jude Bellingham returned to action as a substitute in the 89th minute, his first appearance since undergoing shoulder surgery in July following the Club World Cup. Although coming on late, his return adds fresh options to Ancelotti’s midfield ahead of a busy schedule that includes La Liga, the Champions League, and domestic cup competitions.
Espanyol, meanwhile, were left to rue missed opportunities and defensive errors that proved costly. Prior to this fixture, the Catalan side had enjoyed a strong start, winning three and drawing one of their opening four matches. Their inability to adapt to Real Madrid’s relentless attack ultimately prevented them from extending their unbeaten run.
This victory further highlights Real Madrid’s blend of individual brilliance and collective efficiency. Militão’s spectacular strike demonstrated defensive versatility turned into offensive threat, while Mbappé’s finishing and intelligent movement provided the cutting edge to secure all three points. Vinícius Jr. and Valverde’s contributions reinforced the depth and quality across the squad, a factor that has been crucial in sustaining their perfect start.
For Ancelotti, maintaining focus will be key. The Spanish champions have been effective in combining youth and experience, with players like Militão, Mbappé, and Bellingham stepping up alongside seasoned campaigners. Their cohesion and adaptability have allowed them to overcome tactical challenges, as seen against Espanyol’s disciplined defensive block.
Real Madrid’s fans at the Santiago Bernabéu witnessed a mixture of skill, precision, and tactical control, emblematic of a team intent on defending their La Liga crown. With this win, the side not only continues their perfect record but also sends a warning to rivals that they remain formidable in both attack and defence.
As La Liga progresses, Real Madrid will look to build on this momentum, balancing domestic and European commitments. The win over Espanyol underlines that despite tactical resistance from opponents, they possess the quality, depth, and experience to maintain their high standards. For Espanyol, the focus will shift to regrouping and ensuring mistakes are minimised in future fixtures.
