Real Madrid Clinches Convincing 2-0 Victory in Opening La Liga Fixture

In a dynamic display of their revamped 4-4-2 diamond formation, Real Madrid asserted their dominance in their season-opening La Liga match. The team’s fluidity was evident in the first half as they skillfully orchestrated chances and limited Bilbao’s response. Collaborative play involving every outfield player paved the way for the opening goal, and shortly thereafter, Jude Bellingham showcased individual brilliance, backed by a hint of luck, to extend the lead.

The second half saw a resurgent Bilbao following three lineup changes, but their efforts fell short of securing a goal. While Real Madrid missed opportunities to widen the gap, Carlo Ancelotti’s side held their ground and secured a well-deserved victory, although there remain areas to refine, particularly the conversion rate.

🏁 FULL TIME. Athletic Club 0-2 Real Madrid!

🔍 85′ Real Madrid transitions to a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Joselu leading the line.

🚨 83′ Modric’s shot from within the box lacks power, making for an easy save by Simon.

🔄 80′ Vinicius is replaced by Joselu, while Rodrygo makes way for Modric.

NiMo (Reddit): “Tchouameni signaling for a substitution. Bellingham appears fatigued. Ancelotti substitutes the only wingers, potentially isolating the striker without wing support.”

🚨 76′ Tchouameni makes a crucial block as Bilbao pushes forward, demanding courage from Ancelotti’s players.

🚨 72′ Alaba’s decisive block denies Bilbao a goal-scoring opportunity.

🔄 71′ Toni Kroos replaces Eduardo Camavinga.

🚨 70′ Simon parries Vini’s effort. Although not dangerous, it tests the goalkeeper.

🚨 68′ Valverde’s low direct free kick narrowly misses, showcasing Real Madrid’s creative set-piece routines.

👏 65′ Carvajal’s exemplary defense stands out again, reflecting his exceptional performance.

😱 58′ Bellingham dazzles with a skillful run through the center, linking up with Vinicius and nearly providing an assist.

RandomFluffyBoi (Reddit): “This guy might be a reincarnation of Zidane, seriously.”

Kiyan Sobhani (Reddit): “Bellingham’s transition play is masterful.”

🤕 49′ Eder Militao exits due to injury, a result of a slip. Concerns arise about the severity.

Share4acare (Reddit): “The pitch is excessively slippery.”

yourdaddyjust (Reddit): “He’s walking and managing stairs, fingers crossed.”

FriesAddiction (Reddit): “Cursed season. Sign Ramos if Militao faces long-term injury.”

🔥 SECOND HALF!

📊 Half-time ratings

Best players

Carvajal. Impressive defending, pivotal assist for Rodrygo’s goal.

Bellingham. Versatile and determined play, crowned by a stunning debut goal.

Rodrygo. Dynamic performance in attack, generating multiple chances.

Fran Garcia. Strong debut showcasing interceptions and dueling skills.

Worst players

Vinicius Jr. Restricted by opposition, missed one-on-one opportunity.

Camavinga. Subpar passing, mediocre support in attacks, drew fouls.

⏱️ Half-time! Athletic Club 0-2 Real Madrid.

🚨 45+4′ Rodrygo’s bicycle kick attempt followed by Fran Garcia’s effort miss the target.

⚽️ 36′ GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL!!! BELLINGHAM STRIKES!

Bellingham’s volley bounces off the grass into the far corner, evading Simon’s grasp.

TC (Twitter): “Jude Bellingham, the world’s best midfielder at 20.”

🚨 35′ Vinicius misses a double chance from close range, thwarted by Simon.

🚨 34′ Alaba’s header hits the post, nearly scoring from a corner kick.

⚽️ 28′ GOOOOOOOOOOOOOAL!!! RODRYGO OPENS REAL MADRID’S SEASON!

Rodrygo’s quick exchange with Carvajal results in the Brazilian finding the net.

b1walid (Reddit): “Rodrygo’s move was reminiscent of R9.”

hokage… (Reddit): “Rodrygo is playing both as a right winger and a centre-forward – he’ll be pivotal this season.”

🚨 22′ Rodrygo’s shot from a tight angle is saved by Simon, providing Real Madrid a better chance.

📝 19′ The game’s tempo slows down as Real Madrid creates half-chances while Bilbao poses minimal threat.

😲 14′ Valverde’s long-range strike shows promise, reflecting his consistency.

UnlimitedXI (Reddit): “Is Valverde returning to his early-season form? I’m hopeful.”

👎 11′ Camavinga’s passing struggles continue.

🥴 8′ Unpleasant incidents arise as Bilbao fans direct inappropriate gestures at Vini, accompanied by booing.

😱 4′ Carvajal’s solid defending shines early on both flanks.

h4ssan (Reddit): “Long sleeve Dani is in a different league.”

👏 2′ Lunin’s strong fist clears the ball from a corner kick.

🔥 KICK OFF!

The lineup: Lunin; Carvajal, Militao, Alaba, Fran Garcia; Valverde, Tchouameni, Camavinga, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr.

Greetings, Madridistas! Welcome to live coverage of Real Madrid’s inaugural La Liga clash against Athletic Club!