Real Madrid lay down marker with convincing Schalke victory

Real Madrid completed their preparations for the 2026-27 season with a 3-0 win over Schalke at the Veltins-Arena on Sunday, delivering an impressive performance and a clear sign of their readiness under manager Jose Mourinho.

Kylian Mbappe opened the scoring after only six minutes, capitalising on an error by Schalke defender Schallenberg. The defender attempted to pass the ball back to his goalkeeper, but his misplaced delivery fell straight to Mbappe, who made no mistake in finishing past Loris Karius.

The result spoiled Schalke’s celebrations as they prepared to return to Bundesliga action. Real Madrid controlled much of the contest, particularly during an excellent first half in which several of their key players stood out.

Arda Guler was one of the most influential figures in the opening period. With Bernardo Silva operating in midfield, Guler was given greater freedom to move into the space behind the forward line and repeatedly helped create openings for the Spanish side.

The Turkey international was effective both from set-pieces and in open play. His first touch often helped Real Madrid launch attacks, while one of his passes found Mbappe, who laid the ball off to Vinicius Junior. Schalke were forced to clear the danger from the goal line.

Real Madrid doubled their advantage in the 20th minute when young defender Dean Huijsen headed home from a corner delivered by Guler.

Brahim Diaz also contributed to an energetic attacking display. He released Mbappe into a one-on-one position, but the France forward’s effort went narrowly wide of the post.

Mourinho’s side responded positively to his instructions and used Bernardo Silva and Federico Valverde to establish control in midfield. Schalke attempted to press high up the pitch, but that approach left space for Real Madrid to exploit with quick passing and direct attacks.

At the other end, Konate was particularly assured in defence. The French defender dealt effectively with Schalke’s aerial threat and remained prominent whenever the home side tried to build pressure.

Mourinho made several changes at half-time, bringing on Andriy Lunin, Antonio Rudiger, Eduardo Camavinga and Carlos Espai as he looked to preserve the team’s intensity while giving additional players valuable minutes.

Schalke enjoyed spells of pressure after the interval but struggled to create a clear opening. Their best chance came from a long-range effort by Oschies, which failed to trouble Real Madrid’s goal.

Real Madrid added a third in the 57th minute after Vinicius Junior led a counter-attack and supplied Carreras. Carreras then produced a precise touch into the path of Carlos Espai, who finished the move by sending the ball into the net.

Diomande and Cucurella made their first appearances in the closing stages as Mourinho continued to assess his squad before the competitive campaign begins.

Schalke still tried to reduce the deficit, with Tanaka helping to construct an attack that ended with veteran striker Edin Dzeko testing Lunin. The goalkeeper made the save to preserve Real Madrid’s clean sheet.

Real Madrid came close to scoring a fourth when Vinicius Junior was caught offside before he could finish one opportunity. Sirya also missed another chance after receiving a cross from Espai.

The victory gives Real Madrid a strong finish to their pre-season schedule, while Schalke’s return to Bundesliga competition ended in a demanding test against Mourinho’s side.