Mourinho's Madrid Survives Espanyol Scare, Wins in Last Gasp

Real Madrid snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory against Espanyol in the dying moments of the match, marking a successful, albeit narrow, debut for manager Mourinho. Striker Carlos Espí became the hero, netting the decisive goal in the 90th minute at the RCDE Stadium.

The game began brightly for Real Madrid, with Jude Bellingham heading home a free-kick from Arda Güler in the ninth minute, capitalizing on a defensive error. The early stages suggested a tough outing for Espanyol's defense, as Mbappé and Güler combined to create further chances. However, Espanyol grew into the game, and Javi Hernández's precise pass found Calatrava, who leveled the score in the 30th minute with a left-footed shot, energizing the home crowd.

Despite Espanyol's equalizer, Real Madrid, particularly Mbappé, continued to press forward, creating several clear-cut opportunities before halftime. The second half saw increased intensity and a moment of controversy when Real Madrid appealed for a second yellow card for Espanyol's Cala, which was dismissed by the referee. Bellingham tested Espanyol's goalkeeper Dmitrovic with a powerful shot, which was saved.

Both managers made tactical substitutions in the latter stages of the game, with Mourinho introducing fresh legs to push for a winner. Fede Valverde came close for Real Madrid, hitting the post in the 77th minute. Just as the match seemed destined for a draw, Espí capitalized on a loose ball in the box following a play by Mbappé, and a hesitant Dmitrovic could not prevent the late goal, securing all three points for Real Madrid.