Real Madrid's victory was secured in the final minute of regular playing time, thanks to a goal from Carlos Espí. The match was a closely contested affair, with Espanyol equalizing through Álex Calatrava in the 30th minute. However, Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham had given his team the lead with a header from a free kick just nine minutes into the game.
Denzel Dumfries, who played his first match for Real Madrid, was substituted out of the game in the 80th minute. The Dutch right-back, a 76-time international, started the match well, but was unable to prevent Espanyol from equalizing. Despite the close call, Real Madrid's victory marked a successful return to the dugout for Mourinho.