Diomande introduced as Real Madrid snatch late victory on Mourinho return

Real Madrid began their Liga campaign with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Espanyol, secured in stoppage time on the occasion of Yan Diomande’s debut for the club. The Ivorian forward came on in the second half and played a role in the winning goal, while Carlos Espi emerged as the decisive figure for Jose Mourinho on the manager’s return to Real Madrid.

The result gave Mourinho the start he had wanted, although Real Madrid were made to work hard for all three points after appearing to take control early on.

With most of the team’s established stars and new signings in good form, Real Madrid made an ideal start at the Santiago Bernabeu. Arda Guler delivered a precise free-kick into the penalty area and Jude Bellingham rose to head the ball beyond the goalkeeper after only 10 minutes.

That early goal suggested Real Madrid could enjoy a comfortable evening, but Espanyol quickly disrupted those expectations. The visitors grew into the match and found an equaliser after half an hour.

A low cross reached Alex Calatrava in an inviting position inside the area. The midfielder struck a precise effort into the corner, catching Thibaut Courtois by surprise and bringing Espanyol level. Neither side found another goal before the interval, leaving Real Madrid facing a more difficult second half than the opening exchanges had suggested.

After the restart, Mourinho’s side pushed forward in search of a second goal. Real Madrid controlled much of the play and created several clear opportunities, but their finishing prevented them from turning that pressure into a lead.

Mourinho made a series of changes shortly before the end of normal time. Trent Alexander-Arnold replaced denzelyDumfries, while Eduardo Camavinga and major new signing Diomande were also introduced among the substitutes sent on to influence the contest.

The alterations eventually produced the breakthrough Real Madrid needed, although the winning goal came in fortuitous circumstances. In stoppage time, Diomande sent a pass into the penalty area. The ball took a favourable rebound and fell for Espi, who finished to put Real Madrid 2-1 ahead.

The goal completed a memorable introduction to the club for Diomande and handed Mourinho a victory in his first Liga match since returning to Real Madrid. It also ensured Real Madrid opened their league campaign with a win despite being unable to maintain their early momentum against a resilient Espanyol side.

There will be little time for the players to celebrate. Real Madrid and their highly regarded Ivorian star are due back in action next Wednesday, when they face Real Sociedad.