Karim Benzema keeps Real Madrid perfect with two late strikes at Espanyol

Karim Benzema scored two late goals to extend Real Madrid’s 100% winning record as Los Blancos edged past Espanyol 3-1 on Sunday night at the RCDE Stadium. Vinicius Junior scored his second goal of the season to give Carlo Ancelotti’s side the lead, but Joselu restored parity two minutes before half-time. Ad It looked like the visitors would have to settle for a point until Benzema popped up with just two minutes remaining to poke home Rodrygo’s back post cross before settling it with a superb free-kick 10 minutes into added-time.

FootballThe Champions League group stage promises highly predictable drama — The Warm-Up26/08/2022 AT 07:28 It took Real Madrid just 12 minutes to make the breakthrough, Vinicius Jr latching onto Aurelien Tchouameni’s lovely, disguised pass before stroking it past the helpless Benjamin Lecomte. Playing with a quick tempo and intensity, Real Madrid continued to dominate proceedings and came close to doubling their lead, but Vinicius Jr lifted his shot narrowly over the bar. Espanyol slowly grew into the game and fired a warning when former Real Madrid defender Leandro Cabrera glanced his header agonisingly wide of the far post.

La Liga table La Liga fixtures/results La Liga top scorers Just moments later, the hosts were level. Joselu had plenty to do when he received the ball with his back to goal, but he held off the challenge of Eder Militao, swivelling before forcing Thibaut Courtois into a save. He would react quickest to the rebound and this time finished superbly.