Late Espi goal fires Real Madrid to win at Espanyol on Mourinho’s return

Jose Mourinho returned to La Liga with Real Madrid, securing a thrilling late win against RCD Espanyol. Espanyol had won their opening match 3-0 against Levante. Madrid began energetically, but Espanyol quickly closed them down in the early stages. In the ninth minute, Madrid took the lead when Arda Guler delivered a cross to Jude Bellingham, who headed home past Marko Dmitrovic.

Despite intense attacking from Kylian Mbappe, Madrid couldn't find the equalizer. The hosts equalized in the 30th minute through Alex Calatrava. The second half mirrored the first, with Madrid dominating possession but struggling to capitalize on opportunities. When Madrid's Bellingham injured his ankle, Mourinho made substitutions, including bringing on 21-year-old Carlos Espi.

Espi scored the crucial late winner as the clock hit the 90-minute mark to give Madrid a well-deserved victory and a successful start to Mourinho's return to Spanish league action.