Bale makes an impressive comeback, Real increases their lead over Barca.

Gareth Bale needed just 13 minutes on the pitch to score, helping Real Madrid beat Espanyol 2-0 in La Liga's 23rd round.

Goals: Morata 33', Bale 84'

The match against Espanyol was Bale's first game after three months sidelined with injury. Coming on in the 71st minute, the winger needed only 13 minutes to score. Bale's angled shot found the far corner, leaving goalkeeper Diego Lopez with no chance to save it despite his full-stretch dive.

Before Bale sealed the 2-0 victory, Real also created several dangerous situations towards Espanyol's goal. Morata capitalized on one of these, heading in the opening goal from Isco's cross.

Bale (in white shirt) shone immediately upon his return to Real Madrid. Photo: Reuters

Compared to their victory against Napoli in the Champions League, Real Madrid played somewhat less sharply against Espanyol. This could be due to coach Zinedine Zidane resting several key players such as Luka Modric, Karim Benzema, and Marcelo. Without Morata's accurate header, Real Madrid might have faced more challenges in breaking through the visitors' defense.

Morata scored with a header.

Although Real Madrid didn't create as many scoring opportunities as in previous matches, they still dominated Espanyol. The white-shirted team consistently maintained high possession, at times reaching 80%. This was thanks to their experienced midfield, highlighted by Toni Kroos. In his role as a ball distributor, Kroos consistently impressed with accurate passes, giving his teammates an advantage.

Espanyol showed resilience in defense but lacked effort in attack. For over 90 minutes, the visitors hardly created any dangerous chances against Real Madrid's goal. Goalkeeper Kiko Casilla had one of his easiest games, filling in for Keylor Navas.

Espanyol (in black shirts) only impressed with their defensive efforts.

With their victory in round 23, Real Madrid continues to lead La Liga with 52 points. This is four points more than Barcelona, ​​who are in second place and played later in this round. Real Madrid currently have two games in hand against Valencia and Celta Vigo.

According to VNE