Culture & Entertainment · India Bureau
Mourinho savors Madrid return with opening-day victory over Espanyol
Jose Mourinho's second tenure as Real Madrid manager began on a winning note with a 2-1 comeback victory at Espanyol. The result marked an encouraging start for the Portuguese tactician in his return to La Liga.
LSN India ·
Real Madrid secured a 2-1 away victory at Espanyol on Sunday as Jose Mourinho marked his second stint in charge with a winning performance. Jude Bellingham opened the scoring with a ninth-minute header from a free kick, giving the visitors an early advantage at the RCDE Stadium.
Espanyol mounted a spirited response, but Madrid restored their two-goal cushion through substitute Carlos Espi, who struck 11 minutes after entering the field in the 79th minute. The 21-year-old academy product, signed from Levante for a reported €25 million following an impressive La Liga season, provided the decisive moment when he capitalised on loose play triggered by pressure on Kylian Mbappe to fire past goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic.
In Serie A, Inter Milan commenced its title defence in commanding fashion, thrashing newly-promoted Monza 4-1 at home. The Italian champions' dominant display underscored their credentials ahead of a challenging campaign.
Elsewhere in Europe's leading leagues, Manchester United faltered in a 2-0 defeat at newly-promoted Hull City in the Premier League, while French side RC Lens continued their impressive form with a 5-2 rout of Auxerre, building on last season's runner-up finish in Ligue 1.