Real Madrid continued their perfect start to the season on Saturday with a 2-0 victory over Espanyol at the Santiago Bernabeu. The win, their fifth in five matches in La Liga and six wins out of six matches across all competitions, solidifies their position at the top of La Liga and provides a promising start to the tenure of manager Xabi Alonso.

The visitors began the match on the front foot, with Edu Exposito forcing an early save from Thibaut Courtois. However, both teams struggled to create clear-cut chances until an unlikely source broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute.

Picking up the ball some 30 yards from goal, Real defender Eder Militao unleashed a ferocious strike that soared past Espanyol goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic, leaving him with no chance. The goal was Madrid's only shot on target in a quiet first half.

The host found their rhythm moments after the restart, and it was a familiar face who sealed the victory. Following a cutback from Vinicius Junior inside the box, Kylian Mbappe continued his fabulous form by drilling a powerful shot home from around 22 yards. The goal marked the French striker’s third consecutive game on the scoresheet, taking his tally to seven goals for the season.

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Madrid had multiple chances to extend their lead, with Mbappe and Vinicius both denied in quick succession by Dmitrovic, and Vinicius also striking the post. However, they had to content with the two goal lead.

The comfortable win was further celebrated by the home crowd as Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham made their respective returns to action following lengthy spells on the sidelines.

The result takes Real Madrid five points clear at the top of the standings with 15 points. Meanwhile, Espanyol, who suffered their first defeat of the campaign, sit in fourth place with 10 points. Barcelona, one game in hand, sit next to Real Madrid with 10 points, and goal difference, while Villareal sit at the third place with the same 10 points.