In a dramatic finish at Elche on Tuesday, Real Madrid secured a crucial 3-2 victory thanks to a last-minute goal from substitute Carlos Espi. This win moves Madrid level on points with Barcelona at the summit of La Liga.
Espi, who was signed from Levante during the summer transfer window, has yet to start a match this season but has already made a significant impact, scoring twice from the bench. His latest effort in the 91st minute came after Madrid squandered a two-goal advantage, allowing the struggling hosts to mount a late comeback.
Madrid’s record now stands at five wins out of six games, matching the points tally of the reigning champions Barcelona, who are set to host Racing Santander on Wednesday.
Mourinho’s Tactical Gamble and Mixed Emotions
Jose Mourinho expressed frustration over his team’s inability to maintain control after taking a comfortable 2-0 lead. “There are games which seem to be over… which we’re not killing off, and after not killing them off they go from easy to being out of control,” the seasoned coach remarked, highlighting the vulnerability Madrid displayed in the closing stages.
Mourinho also shed light on his strategic decisions, notably resting Jude Bellingham for the first time this season and introducing Arda Guler in his place. He praised the motivation shown by Espi off the bench but acknowledged the challenge of integrating such a player alongside stars like Kylian Mbappe, who also scored in the match. “Playing with the two of them is not easy… with the changes I made late on I risked everything, because a draw was not enough,” Mourinho explained.
The victory continues Madrid’s strong start to the campaign, underscored by Espi’s knack for delivering critical goals despite limited playing time. Meanwhile, Elche remains at the bottom of the league standings after their spirited but ultimately unsuccessful fightback.