Benzema nets late double as Real Madrid maintain 100% record with 3-1 victory over Espanyol

• Vinicius put the away side 1-0 up

• Joselu drew Espanyol level but Benzema grabbed two late goals
• Madrid have 100% record ahead of Betis clash

WHAT HAPPENED? Vinicius Junior made it 1-0 early on with a composed finish before Joselu Mato levelled things up on the stroke of half time. Both sides had chances to score after the break, but it would be Madrid who found a winner, with Benzema popping up at the back post to volley home Rodrygo's cross in the 88th minute and then netting a fine free kick deep into stoppage time.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: This was a gritty win for Madrid who lost control of proceedings at the beginning of the first half. However, like champions do, they rallied to secure a very impressive three points.

ALL EYES ON: This was the first game of the post-Casemiro era, and Aurelien Tchouameni was tasked with filling the Brazilian's shoes. Within 12 minutes he had an assist, and this set the tone for a promising display at the base of midfield.

THE MATCH IN THREE PHOTOS:

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DID YOU KNOW? No player has a better goal-per-game percentage against Los Blancos in the 21st century than Espanyol scorer Joselu. He has managed seven strikes in just nine appearances.

THE VERDICT:

Ancelotti shuffled his pack in defence.

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That wasn't the only tactical tweak either.

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Casemiro? Never heard of him.

On a night in which Lewandowski netted another brace, Benzema struggled...

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But of course, Benzema and Madrid can NEVER be written off!

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WHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID? Madrid are next in action when Real Betis - who have also won each of their three opening games - come to town on Saturday. This is followed by a Champions League group-stage meeting with Celtic in Glasgow.