Real Madrid edge past Espanyol in season opener as Bellingham shines

Real Madrid made a winning start to their La Liga campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 triumph over Espanyol on Sunday. Bellingham, the club's marquee summer signing, opened the scoring to mark an impressive competitive debut for the English midfielder at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The match proved more challenging than expected for Carlo Ancelotti's side, with Espanyol mounting a spirited resistance. However, the newly acquired Carlos Espi sealed victory with a crucial second-half goal that proved decisive in securing three points.

Espanyol pulled one back to set up a tense finale, but Madrid held firm to claim the opening fixture of the season. The victory marked an encouraging beginning for Real Madrid, who will be looking to build momentum in their title defence campaign.

The match drew significant attention due to Mourinho's presence at the Catalan club, marking his return to Spanish football following his previous stints with Real Madrid and Inter Milan in European competition.