Real Madrid beat Espanyol 2-0 thanks to a brace from Vinicius, thus keeping their slim hopes alive in the La Liga title race against Barcelona.
Despite Mbappe's absence due to injury, Real Madrid endured a difficult 90 minutes against Espanyol, but still secured a 2-0 victory thanks to a brilliant performance from Vinicius. This result allows the "White Eagles" to continue chasing Barcelona in the La Liga title race.
The first half saw many difficulties for the home team at the Bernabeu. Espanyol started with great determination, organizing a tight defense and launching sharp counter-attacks.
On several occasions, Real Madrid's defense found itself in a passive position, and without luck and timely saves, they could have conceded a goal. Throughout the first 45 minutes, Carlo Ancelotti's players were almost completely ineffective in finding a way to score.
However, the turning point came in the second half when Real Madrid increased their pace and pressure. In the 55th minute, Vinicius produced a moment of genius, using a feint to bypass a series of Espanyol defenders before finishing into the near corner, opening the scoring.
Just 11 minutes later, the Brazilian star continued to shine. After a quick one-two with Jude Bellingham, Vinicius unleashed a powerful one-touch finish, making it 2-0 and virtually sealing the match.
Two goals conceded completely shattered Espanyol's hopes. Although Real Madrid missed several more opportunities, they still secured the victory. The three points earned keep the Royal team's hopes alive in the title race.
Goals : Vinicius (55', 66')
Starting lineup:
Espanyol: Dmitrovic, El Hilali, Calero, Cabrera, Romero, Gonzalez, Terrats, Sanchez, Exposito, Dolan, Fernandez
Real Madrid: Lunin, Alexander-Arnold, Rudiger, Huijsen, Mendy, Valverde, Bellingham, Pinar, Tchouameni, Diaz, Vinicius
La Liga 2025/26 Standings No. Team Match T H B students Point 1
- Relegation