Real Madrid Come from Behind to Defeat Espanyol, Clinch Fourth Consecutive Win

In a thrilling encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid secured their fourth consecutive win by overcoming Espanyol 4-1. Despite an unfortunate own goal by Thibaut Courtois in the 54th minute, Carlo Ancelotti’s men produced a dominant performance, with goals from Dani Carvajal, Rodrygo, Vinícius Jr., and Kylian Mbappé to seal another crucial three points.

A Fast-Paced Start

Real Madrid began the game in commanding fashion, showing intent from the opening minutes. Within 11 minutes, the team nearly found the back of the net twice. Fran García’s pinpoint cross was skillfully nodded by Arda Güler into the path of Mbappé, but the Frenchman’s effort was saved by Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García. Moments later, Éder Militão’s powerful header from a corner narrowly missed the target.

Chances Galore

Madrid continued to press, with Mbappé leading the charge and causing chaos in Espanyol’s defense. In the 21st minute, the French forward connected well with Rodrygo but was again denied by the excellent Joan García. Just a minute later, Luka Modrić played a perfectly timed ball to Mbappé, but his left-footed strike was parried by the in-form Espanyol keeper.

Espanyol’s Fortuitous Opener

The second half began with Real Madrid still on the front foot, as Mbappé threatened again with a sharp turn and shot. However, Espanyol managed to create danger of their own with long-range efforts, as Jofre’s shot deflected off Militão and flew just over the bar. The visitors’ pressure paid off when, in the 54th minute, a cross from Jofre struck Courtois’ heel and ended up in the back of the net for a surprising own goal.

Madrid’s Impressive Comeback

Real Madrid’s response was swift and emphatic. Just four minutes after conceding, Fede Valverde’s fierce shot was deflected, but Jude Bellingham’s persistence allowed him to retrieve the ball and deliver a low cross into the path of Dani Carvajal, who slammed it home from close range to level the score at 1-1.

Madrid’s momentum continued to build, and in the 75th minute, a stunning piece of skill from Vinícius Jr. saw him provide a perfectly placed assist with the outside of his boot, leaving Rodrygo with an easy finish to make it 2-1. The floodgates opened, and just four minutes later, Mbappé set up Vinícius Jr., who beat the goalkeeper one-on-one to extend the lead.

Mbappé on the Scoresheet Again

With the game winding down, Mbappé got the goal his performance deserved. In the final minute of regulation, he calmly converted a penalty after Espanyol’s C. Romero brought down Endrick in the box. The French forward has now scored in all four of Madrid’s recent victories, netting five goals in the last four matches.

Real Madrid’s win solidifies their position at the top of La Liga, with Ancelotti’s side continuing to show resilience and firepower. With Mbappé in fine form and contributions from across the squad, the team looks ready to take on the challenges ahead.