League: LaLiga Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Scores & Results

Real Madrid wins season opener against Espanyol amid Vinicius controversy

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 9:01 AM

Last updated Aug 23, 2026

Real Madrid wins season opener against Espanyol amid Vinicius controversy

Summary

Real Madrid began its season with a 2-1 victory over Espanyol on August 23, 2026. The game featured renewed controversy surrounding Vinicius Jr., particularly during two penalty area incidents where he fell without receiving a penalty or a second yellow card. Espanyol criticized his actions through a social media post, prompting sharp replies from Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and head coach José Mourinho. They defended Vinicius, emphasizing ongoing issues with player harassment. The controversy could persist as the season continues.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Real Madrid secures a 2-1 win over Espanyol in the season opener.
•Vinicius Jr. involved in controversial incidents without penalties shown.
•Espanyol's social media post drew criticism from Courtois and Mourinho.
•Ongoing discourse on player treatment and social media's role expected.

Latest Updates

9:01 AMYahoo Sports — Mobbed by opponents and crowd: Vini uproar overshadows Real's win

What they're saying

"
Real Madrid not only kicked off the new season with a late winner, but also with more Vini controversy. A social media post from opponents Espanyol added fuel to the fire during Los Blancos’ 2-1 vic...
— Yahoo Sports

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