Real Madrid shines with Militão’s wonder goal and extends LaLiga lead against Espanyol Por Luís Henrique Costa
6 min de leitura
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Real Madrid defeated Espanyol 2-0 on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Santiago Bernabéu, in the fifth round of LaLiga. With a wonder goal from Éder Militão and a strike from Kylian Mbappé, the Merengue side maintained their unbeaten streak this season and extended their lead at the top of the Spanish Championship. The match marked the return of young striker Endrick to the squad after a four-month injury layoff, though he did not play. The game also featured a heartfelt tribute to Abderrahim Ouhida, a Moroccan fan who survived a 2023 earthquake.
The match began with Real Madrid controlling possession but struggling to break through Espanyol’s well-organized defense. The visitors, arriving at the Bernabéu with three wins and a draw this season, aimed to surprise on the counterattack. The deadlock was broken by Militão at the 21st minute. Receiving the ball in midfield, the Brazilian defender unleashed a stunning long-range shot into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Dmitrovic with no chance. In the second half, Mbappé doubled the lead just one minute in, finishing a move set up by Vini Jr., cementing Real’s dominance.
- Match highlights: Militão’s wonder goal, Vini Jr.’s assist, and Mbappé’s efficiency.
- Special tribute: Abderrahim Ouhida, a 16-year-old fan, was honored at the Bernabéu.
- Awaited return: Endrick was back in the squad after a thigh injury.
The victory placed Real Madrid at 15 points, five ahead of Barcelona and Espanyol, who share second place with 10 points. The game underscored the strength of Xabi Alonso’s squad, which remains unbeaten with six consecutive wins, including their Champions League opener.
Militão’s wonder goal sets the tone
The first half at the Bernabéu was a patient affair. Real Madrid held possession but faced a compact Espanyol defense. At the 21st minute, Éder Militão changed the game. After receiving the ball in midfield, the Brazilian defender fired a spectacular long-range shot into the top corner, beyond Dmitrovic’s reach. The goal, one of the round’s finest, ignited the crowd and boosted the home side’s confidence.
Espanyol sought to respond with quick plays led by Roberto Fernández and Edu Expósito but struggled against Real’s solid defense. Goalkeeper Courtois was reliable, neutralizing the visitors’ few chances. Before halftime, Mbappé and Vini Jr. had opportunities but failed to convert, missing chances to extend the lead.
- Decisive moment: Militão’s 21st-minute strike broke Espanyol’s defense.
- Espanyol’s defense: Visitors prioritized marking but lacked counterattacking threat.
- Missed chances: Mbappé and Vini Jr. nearly scored before the break.
Mbappé and Vini Jr. shine in the second half
The second half had barely started when Real Madrid struck again. Just one minute in, Vini Jr. received the ball in midfield, surged down the left, and set up Mbappé, who finished with precision into the top of the net. The play highlighted the synergy between the two attackers, key figures in Real’s unbeaten campaign.
Real kept up the pressure, creating a flurry of chances. Mbappé nearly scored again with a chipped effort that hit the top of the net. Vini Jr. also tested goalkeeper Dmitrovic and struck the post in a thrilling team move. Espanyol, despite substitutions like Kike García and Pickel, couldn’t overcome Real’s defense.
- Rehearsed move: Vini Jr. and Mbappé combined for the second goal with speed and accuracy.
- Relentless pressure: Real created at least five clear chances in the second half.
- Espanyol contained: Substitutions failed to shift the game’s momentum.
- Solid defense: Courtois and Asencio neutralized Espanyol’s rare attacks.
Emotional tribute to Abderrahim Ouhida
Before kickoff, the Bernabéu witnessed a touching moment. Abderrahim Ouhida, a 16-year-old Moroccan fan, was honored by both Real Madrid and Espanyol. Having survived a 2023 earthquake in Morocco that claimed his parents, grandmother, and siblings, Ouhida gained attention online for an interview while wearing a Real Madrid shirt. Invited by the club, he visited the stadium, met the squad, and gave the ceremonial kickoff, earning applause from the crowd.
The tribute highlighted football’s human side, uniting fans and players in a gesture of solidarity. Visibly moved, Ouhida watched the game from the stands and was hailed as an example of resilience by the club.
- Story of resilience: Ouhida lost his family in a tragedy but found solace in football.
- Special invitation: Real Madrid offered a unique experience to the young fan.
- Bernabéu unity: The tribute brought fans and players together in a memorable moment.
Endrick’s return to the squad
Another highlight was Endrick’s return to Real Madrid’s squad. The 19-year-old Brazilian striker, sidelined for four months by a right thigh muscle injury from the penultimate round of LaLiga 2024/25, remained on the bench against Espanyol. Now wearing the number 9 shirt, Endrick’s presence was celebrated by fans eager for his season debut.
Endrick’s return bolsters Real Madrid’s attacking options, alongside stars like Mbappé, Vini Jr., and Rodrygo. Fans expect him to get minutes in upcoming matches, particularly in games with comfortable scorelines.
- Injury overcome: Endrick recovered after four months of intensive treatment.
- New number: The striker took on the iconic number 9 shirt.
- Fan anticipation: Supporters await Endrick’s first minutes this season.
Merengue dominance in LaLiga
With the win, Real Madrid solidified their LaLiga 2025/26 lead, reaching 15 points in five rounds. Xabi Alonso’s team boasts a 100% record in the championship and also won their Champions League opener, showcasing consistency across competitions. Espanyol, despite the loss, remains in the race for the top spots with 10 points, tied with Barcelona.
Real Madrid’s next challenge will be maintaining their momentum against tougher opponents, while Espanyol aims to bounce back at home. The match highlighted Real’s blend of individual brilliance, like Militão’s wonder goal, and collective strength, as seen in Mbappé’s strike.
- Firm lead: Real Madrid opens a five-point gap in LaLiga.
- Unbeaten streak: Six consecutive wins this season.
- Competitive Espanyol: Visitors remain in the fight for top positions.
- Xabi Alonso’s form: The coach keeps the team in top gear.
