Los Blancos Fight Back from Early Setback to Stay Unbeaten in La Liga
Real Madrid staged a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat Espanyol 4-1, moving within a point of league leaders Barcelona and maintaining their unbeaten start to the La Liga season.
Espanyol shocked the reigning champions by taking the lead early in the second half, courtesy of a Thibaut Courtois own goal. The Belgian goalkeeper accidentally deflected a cross from Jofre Carreras into his own net, silencing the Santiago Bernabéu crowd. However, Real Madrid responded swiftly, with Dani Carvajal equalizing just three minutes later after being set up by Jude Bellingham.
The introduction of Vinicius Jr proved to be a game-changer for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. The Brazilian, who was initially rested, came off the bench and immediately injected pace and creativity into the attack. He provided a pinpoint cross for Rodrygo to put Los Blancos ahead, before scoring himself with a composed finish past Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia.
In injury time, Real Madrid were awarded a penalty after Endrick was brought down in the box. Kylian Mbappé stepped up and calmly converted the spot-kick, sealing the victory and completing the stunning comeback.
The win propels Real Madrid to second place in the La Liga standings, just behind Barcelona, while Espanyol languish in 13th. Real Madrid will face Alaves in their next match, followed by a crucial derby against Atletico Madrid next weekend. Espanyol will look to bounce back when they host Villarreal on Thursday.
Vinicius Jr, who has faced criticism for his international performances recently, was the standout player of the match. Despite playing only the second half, he was instrumental in changing the game’s dynamics and now has three goals and four assists in six La Liga matches this season, continuing to be a key player for Los Blancos even after the arrival of Mbappé.
Player Ratings:
- Real Madrid: Courtois 3, Carvajal 8, Militao 6, Tchouameni 7, Garcia 7, Valverde 6, Modric 7, Bellingham 8, Rodrygo 9, Arda Guler 5, Mbappé 7. Subs: Vinicius Jr 10*, Endrick 7, Rudiger n/a, Vazquez n/a.
- Espanyol: Joan Garcia 5, Kumbulla 6, Cabrera 5, Puado 6, Pol Lozano 5, Tejero 4, Cheddira 5, Jofre 7, Kral 5, Romero 5, El Hilali 4. Subs: Veliz 4, Milla 4, Gragera 5, Aguado n/a, Cardona n/a.
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