Espanyol 2-1 Real Madrid: 5 Talking Points as Los Blancos suffer first league defeat of season | La Liga 2021-22

#3 Espanyol put in a well-rounded performance against Real Madrid

Espanyol players celebrate after scoring against Real Madrid.

Espanyol hit Real Madrid where it hurt the most. The hosts maintained their defensive structure and capitalised on Madrid's porous defence when advancing up the pitch.

The hosts capitalised on their bright start, grabbing the opening goal of the game. The hosts exploited the wings well, and bombarded the Real Madrid box with frequent crosses. After scoring, Espanyol sat back and absorbed the pressure well. They managed to catch Real Madrid on the break on quite a few occasions.

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#2 Real Madrid fail to extend their lead atop the league table

RCD Espanyol vs Real Madrid CF - La Liga Santander

Atletico Madrid managed to keep the title race tight by beating Barcelona 2-0 earlier this weekend. With the win, the holders went second in the league table.

A victory against Espanyol would have steered Real Madrid three points clear of Atletico Madrid. With El Clasico in sight, a comfortable difference at the top would have been desirable. But their loss at Espanyol means Real Madrid now lead Atletico and Real Sociedad only on goal difference.

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#1 Karim Benzema continues his red hot form

Karim Benzema warms up before the game.

Karim Benzema was on the scoresheet for Real Madrid yet again. Although the Frenchman did not have the best of outings, he scored a stunning goal to pull one back for Real Madrid. With the strike, Benzema took his tally to nine in the La Liga this season.

Real Madrid looked bereft of ideas up front against Espanyol, though. Benzema was the only Los Blancos player who looked threatening when advancing higher up the pitch. The Frenchman tried his best to drop deep and create something, but lacked the support he sorely required.