First half of dominance — but no breakthrough
RCDE Stadium was a tense backdrop as Espanyol fought to keep their league position intact. Real Madrid dictated terms from the off, holding 66% of the ball and patiently probing for gaps. Bellingham, Valverde, and Tchouameni orchestrated proceedings while Vinicius Junior consistently threatened down the left.
Despite the dominance, Real could not unlock the stubborn Espanyol defence before the break. Dmitrovic made several important saves, and the hosts sat deep in a compact low block. Seven yellow cards across the 90 minutes underlined the heated nature of the contest.
Two goals in 11 minutes decide it
Real turned the screw after the interval. They broke the deadlock in the 55th minute and doubled the lead just 11 minutes later — 0-2. Espanyol had no answer after that. Five substitutes were thrown on in desperation but Real's defensive organisation was airtight. Dmitrovic finished with three saves, but Real were simply too clinical.
A comfortable three points for Los Blancos
Real Madrid collected three points without breaking a sweat. Bellingham pulled the strings, Vinicius was the constant threat, and Lunin in goal was barely tested — Espanyol managed only three shots on target all evening. The win keeps Real firmly in contention at the top of La Liga.
Match stats
Espanyol: 17 shots (3 on target), 34% possession, 3 yellow cards. Real Madrid: 15 shots (6 on target), 66% possession, 4 yellow cards.