Real Madrid wins again and seems ready just in time for El Clasico

After three games without a win, Real Madrid has won again. Things went wrong against Atlético Madrid, Barcelona and Real Betis, but at home the number two in the Spanish league did win 3-1 over Espanyol. Madrid has approached leader FC Barcelona, which still plays Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, to six points.

It looked like Madrid was in for another painful afternoon. Joselu shot magnificently into the cross for the Catalans in the eighth minute after a beautiful cross from Sánchez. For the Espanyol striker, it was already his eighth goal in 10 duels with Real.

Fears of another points loss were gone half an hour later, because by then the Royal, where Toni Kroos played his 400th game, was leading again. Vinícius finished cleverly after a solo and from a cross by young midfielder Tchouaméni, a beautiful one with the outside of the foot, defender Militão headed in.

In injury time, striker Asensio’s cross from Ceballos secured the first win in three games. A fine boost towards El Clasico, which is scheduled next Sunday. Then Real Madrid will visit the Catalan leaders.