Real Madrid dominated possession against Espanyol, maintaining control of the ball and making it difficult for Espanyol to mount any sustained attacks.
Madrid’s Early Chances
Brahim sent in a cross early in the match. Trent also put a ball into the area, but no one could get a shot on goal. Valverde’s subsequent long-range effort was blocked. Bellingham has started well, but was stopped with a foul.
Vinicius hit the post after a good play involving Bellingham and Trent. Trent delivered a strong cross, and Vinicius attempted a half-volley that struck the post.
Espanyol’s Attempts to Break Through
Huijsen headed the ball wide at the far post. Rubén Sánchez attempted a long-range shot that missed the target. Sánchez also nutmegged Huijsen and sent a cross into the area, but Roberto’s shot went wide.
Espanyol had difficulty maintaining possession. Arbeloa tried to get his players to regain control of the match after Lunin caught a high ball.
Fouls and Substitutions
There was a foul on Bellingham after Cabrera hit him in the face. El Hilali fouled Vinicius, leading to some contention between the two players. Urko pushed Vinicius from behind, but no card was given.
Mendy was substituted for Fran García. Fran García was initially preparing to come on.
Lunin’s Near Mishap
Rüdiger and Lunin nearly made a mistake, leading to a throw-in for Espanyol. Rüdiger cleared the ball after a misunderstanding.
A minute of silence was observed, turning into applause to honour Isidro Oliveras, the former Espanyol director who passed away this week.
Real Madrid are considering who they want as manager. The club are expected to finalise their decision soon and announce it at the end of the season.