Carlos Espí, 21, talló a 1,94 m, scored the winning goal in the 89th minute of a match that finished 2-1 in favor of Espanyol. Real Madrid, led by José Mourinho, lost their debut with the new squad against a firm Espanyol.
Goals and key moments
The score opened with a goal by Jadon Bellingham at 8 minutes, followed by a response from Cala at 29 minutes. Espí's goal at the 89th minute sealed Espanyol's victory. Bellingham had started the attack with a clean shot inside the box and an assist to Güler, who was active in the central area.
Mourinho’s strategy
Mourinho quickly introduced his trident Bellingham-Vinicius-Mbappé, although Vinicius lost his usual rhythm and Mbappé was stopped twice by Dmitrovic. In the second half, the coach substituted Diomande and Cucurella, leaving Güler and Bernardo Silva in defense. At 80 minutes, he added Espí in place of Bellingham, which ultimately produced the decisive goal.
Defense and Dmitrovic’s saves
Goalkeeper Dmitrovic remained solid, stopping two balls that could have ended inside the net. The Merengue defense, with several men in the area, failed to prevent Cala’s attacks, who shot after receiving a pass from Javi Hernández. Valverde had a shot on the post, but Dmitrovic kept the goal intact until the final minute.
