Real Madrid once again proved that it is a giant which does not easily go down, especially in cases where there are quite unexpected challenges. Carlo Ancelotti's team proved in their 4-1 win over Espanyol in the sixth round of LaLiga that even when things seem to go wrong, the talent and resilience of the players make all the difference. An appearance off the bench by Vinícius Júnior in the second half proved to be a game-changer as Madrid turned the tables and won comprehensively. The scoreline, though, belies the fact that the victory was hardly so straightforward.
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Pressure without efficiency and the second-half scare
The game got off on a real high note with Real Madrid pressing hard, dominating possession of the ball, and creating clearcut opportunities, but they were constant victims of the Espanyol keeper, Joan García. The in-form keeper pulled incredible saves from Rodrygo and Mbappé. In spite of the dominance, Madrid just could not find a way into the net.
Then, early in the second half, the unthinkable happened: a rare blunder by Courtois that led to an own goal for Espanyol to take the lead. That sent the team and crowd of Santiago Bernabéu into a shocking change of events that was becoming a little too familiar this season-a dominant Real Madrid unable to find the net when it mattered.
Vini Jr.'s entrance: the turning point
It didn't take long for Carlo Ancelotti to change the dynamics of the game. A goal down, the introduction of Vinícius Júnior just moments after Espanyol's opener was vital. The Brazilian attacker, who started on the bench, provided renewed impetus in attack for Madrid. Just three minutes into his time on the pitch, Madrid drew level through Carvajal, as the unending pressure Vini and co. placed on the Espanyol rear guard paid dividends.
It was after that equalizer that the game totally changed for good and in Madrid's interest. They took every available offensive action, as Vinícius Júnior dictated with ease. It had been a full display of the ability to dismantle Espanyol's defense when he set up Rodrygo up with a great trivela that allowed him an easy finish in front and gave Madrid the lead. That pass wasn't just about Vini's technical ability but also finally nailed his position in the team, even if it is coming off the bench.
Rodrygo, Mbappé, and the final blow
Now in command, Madrid didn't show mercy. Again, Vini Jr. was the axis of the play when he received a pass from Mbappé and finished coolly for the third goal. At this time, Espanyol was completely swept away by the nonstop Madrid attacks that had been holding. The substitution of Rodrygo for Endrick sealed the fate of the game.
The young Endrick was still getting used to European soccer and was cool as cucumber and, after being fouled hard by Carlos Romero, kept pressing and was able to invade the box for a penalty. There Mbappé, always true to form, finished off the rout from the penalty spot. The better chemistry that Mbappé has with Madrid's two young Brazilians is at least good news for the future of the team.
Carlo Ancelotti and the improvement of Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti was crystal clear after the match: Real Madrid are getting better and better. The Italian coach liked the increased pace of his team, its offensive organization, and above all, how well his players are adapting to different situations in the game. The high pressing, the transitions on the counter-attack, and the tactical flexibility have been the keys to Madrid's success, even without a typical center forward.
This victory against Espanyol signaled that Madrid got back to their best. Although many setbacks and problems were evident, the team showed again that they could fight back and change circumstances from bad to good. The squad looked each day more compact, with an improvement in each individual player.