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Real Madrid cut Barcelona’s lead to six points after beating Espanyol in their clash at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Vinicius Junior was on target again as Real Madrid closed the gap on Barcelona at the top of LaLiga table following a 3-1 win over Espanyol at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday afternoon.
Going into the game, Madrid were on a three-match winless run after drawing against Atletico Madrid and Real Betis in the league and losing to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey.
Vinicius and Militao turn it around for Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti also knew they had to win the match to stay in touch with leaders Barcelona, who were nine points ahead.
However, they got off to a bad start as Espanyol took the lead after just eight minutes, courtesy of a superb finish from Joselu.
The Spaniard fired in a first-time finish past Thibaut Courtois after superb work from Ruben Sanchez Saez.
Joselu’s strike stunned the home crowd, but Real Madrid gradually worked their way back into the game.
Los Blancos restored parity in the 22nd minute through their star boy Vinicius Junior. The Brazil went on a brilliant run down the flank before cutting onto this left for a fantastic low drive into the bottom corner.
The goal calmed all nerves and set Real Madrid on their way to a comfortable victory. Madrid took the lead for the first time in the game six minutes from half-time through Eder Militao, who headed home a brilliant cross from Aurélien Tchouameni.
Militao’s strike was his fourth headed goal in the Spanish top-flight this season, more than any player. The Brazilian’s goal sent Real Madrid into the half-time break with a 2-1 lead.
Asensio wraps it up for Real Madrid
Madrid started the second half with more intensity but despite creating a few chances, Ancelotti’s men could not break down Espanyol.
Nonetheless, they were comfortable for most parts of the second half before Asensio ensured there would be no late drama with a crisp finish in the third minute of added.
The result keeps Real Madrid six points within leaders Barcelona ahead of the El Clasico next week.
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