Real Madrid just met the expectations by a decent level of performance. They actually worried me by their start to the game. Espanyol started really fast and scored a goal as well. But this was still not enough to demoralize Real Madrid players later on. They stayed focused and fought for the win hard. They got efficiency from their big effort as well. It was lovely to watch them in the attacking line.
Vinicius Junior is a really valuable player for this team. He is showing this regularly. Rodrygo could have scored a nice goal as well if his free-kick didn't hit the post.
It is good to see that Real Madrid won that game. Otherwise La Liga would become too boring early during the season already. This way we can all be looking forward to the clasico and be excited about it.
For the sake of excitement I hope that Barcelona loses two points or perhaps all three points in a best case scenario. If Real Madrid gets the chance in the clasico to get really close to them one more time, I think the game will be much better to watch and both teams will invest much more into the game.
If Barcelona can keep the distance they would also be a fine with a draw in the game against Real Madrid. It's better to see them being in need for the full three points.
As I said before, against Espanyol will not bring any significant problems for Don Carlo's team. even without Benzema, Madrid was still able to perform optimally and win this match to reduce the difference in points from the top standings.
On the other hand, Barcelona will now have an away game to San Mames, Bilbao headquarters. considering that Real Madrid won the game over Espanyol, Xavi will target his team to get full points in this match. plus, it looks like Lewandowski has been confirmed to have recovered from his injury and it is very likely that Xavi will play him as the main starter. that way, Barcelona's front line became sharp again.
But unfortunately, in this match Araujo was confirmed to be absent due to a red card score. Meanwhile, it is doubtful whether De Jong will play or not. however, on paper Barcelona is superior to the home team to win this match. so, full points are a mandatory result for Barcelona. because in the next match, Barcelona will play the El Clasico match at Camp Nou. Like it or not, Barcelona must widen the difference in points before the match against Real Madrid.