AFP, Barcelona :
Vinicius Junior’s decisive impact helped a “much faster” Real Madrid come from behind to beat Espanyol 4-1 on Saturday and move a point behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona.
After struggling to find their best form this season coach Carlo Ancelotti praised his team’s victory, even though it took its time to crystallise against the determined Catalans.
Brazil star Vinicius started on the bench but created a goal for Rodrygo Goes before scoring himself to complete Madrid’s turnaround after a Thibaut Courtois own goal gifted the visitors the lead early in the second half.
Dani Carvajal levelled for Madrid soon afterwards before Vinicius took the reins, with Kylian Mbappe adding a late penalty to net in his fourth consecutive game for the club.
Hansi Flick’s Barcelona, boasting a perfect record of five wins from five matches, visit unbeaten Villarreal, fourth, on Sunday, looking to restore their four-point lead.
“I thought it was a good game, (the players) reacted well after Espanyol’s goal, we played much better, having more chances and I am happy,” Ancelotti told reporters.
Madrid have not been at their most fluent but this was a cut above their recent displays and the Italian was impressed.
“We played much faster, touching the ball quicker up front, with some better movement,” noted Ancelotti.
“Mobility is a very important weapon… bit by bit we’re returning to our best version.”
The comprehensive victory was Madrid’s 38th consecutive LaLiga game without defeat, their last loss in the competition coming just under a year ago, against Atletico Madrid in September 2023.
“That says a lot, not losing games in so many weeks is really nice, but we have to continue,” said Madrid Captain Luka Modric.
“It’s quality, character, commitment from the team, everyone is ready when called on… those are the key factors.”
Madrid had a stranglehold on the first half without being able to make the breakthrough, with Mbappe heavily involved, hunting for his sixth goal of the season across all competitions.
Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia made a fine save at his near post to thwart the France captain’s effort from a tight angle, among other stops.