Real Madrid opens new season with 2:1 win over Espanyol Barcelona

Background: Delayed season start due to the World Cup

Before kick-off, there was a tense atmosphere inside the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu despite the summery temperatures, as Real Madrid wanted to send a clear statement following a mixed pre-season. Coach José Mourinho, who has been calling the shots for the Royals since this season, had gone with a blend of established players and fresh reinforcements. Among the new signings was Carlos Espi, whose name had mainly been familiar to insiders beforehand.

The match began evenly, as Espanyol Barcelona, who had been under particular scrutiny, gave a good account of themselves. The visitors from Barcelona stood up physically and tried to curb the hosts' attacking play early on. Nevertheless, Real Madrid created chances, but initially failed to convert them.

The first goal of the evening, which came from a set piece, eventually put the home side in front. The Madrileños went into the break 1:0 up, before the visitors from Catalonia equalised to make it 1:1 after the restart, ensuring a tense finale.

Match summary

With the game on a knife's edge, Mourinho brought on Carlos Espi from the bench, among others, to give the attack fresh impetus. The substitution paid off, as Espi converted his first notable touch in a Real Madrid shirt into the 2:1 winner. The super-sub thus became the match-winner and sent the stadium into euphoria.

Jude Bellingham, who had played a central role in the Royals' midfield last term, was also called upon that evening. The Englishman once again put in a solid performance and was the starting point for several dangerous attacks. His link-up play with the new signings hinted at further progress in the new season.

Outlook on the upcoming fixtures

While the Madrileños were celebrating their opening-day win, Espanyol Barcelona already face their next assignment. For Real Madrid, the task after a successful start is to back up the performance in the coming weeks, when sides from Valencia and an away trip to Elche, among others, await.

Sunday's match was broadcast live by DAZN, underlining the streaming service's central role in the new league cycle. For supporters of both clubs, the broadcast offered a chance to follow the season opener despite the unusual circumstances.

Looking ahead to the upcoming matchdays, Real Madrid have now gained confidence, while coach Mourinho faces a welcome selection headache for his starting eleven. The match-winner Espi has certainly put himself in the shop window in Madrid with his super-sub role.