Mourinho's winning return: Real Madrid rescued at the last minute

Jose Mourinho's return to the Real Madrid bench was marked by a dramatic 2-1 victory over Espanyol, sealed in the dying moments of the match. The Portuguese manager, who last officially led the club in 2013, watched as his team secured three points thanks to a debut goal from 21-year-old forward Carlos Espi.

Real Madrid took an early lead in the 9th minute when Jude Bellingham headed home a free-kick delivered by Arda Guler. However, Espanyol fought back, equalizing in the 30th minute. Javi Hernandez provided a pass into the box, and Alex Calatrava scored with a precise left-footed shot past Thibaut Courtois, making it 1-1.

The match seemed destined for a draw until Carlos Espi, a new signing, became the hero. Kylian Mbappe drove into the penalty area and lost possession to Tyrhys Dolan, but Espi was quickest to react. He rounded the goalkeeper and slotted the ball into an empty net in the 90th minute, securing a winning return for Mourinho.

In other Spanish league matches, Sevilla defeated Athletic Bilbao 3-1 away, while Valencia and Celta Vigo played to a goalless draw.