Espí’s Stoppage-Time Goal Gives Real Madrid a 3–2 Win at Elche

Madrid Builds a First-Half Lead

Real Madrid won 3–2 at Elche on September 15, but its early chances did not immediately bring a goal. Dituro stopped Mbappé from reaching a pass from Valverde, then caught Huijsen’s header on the line. Elche had a chance of its own in the 17th minute, when Osorio shot narrowly over.

Madrid went ahead in the 25th minute when Güler’s free kick struck the post, hit Dituro and went in as an own goal. Eight minutes later, Mbappé finished a low cross from Diomande to make it 2–0. Courtois saved an effort from Morente before halftime, keeping Elche from cutting into the lead before the break.

Elche Pulls Level After the Break

Elche’s comeback took shape in the second half. Osorio headed in during the 71st minute to reduce the deficit, giving Elche its first goal after Madrid’s two first-half scores. The next goal came from Fer Niño in the 83rd minute: his scuffed shot went in for the equalizer, bringing the match level at 2–2.

Espí Settles It in Stoppage Time

With the score tied late, Bellingham combined with Mbappé, who assisted Carlos Espí’s stoppage-time winner. The goal restored Madrid’s lead after Elche had come back from 2–0 down. It also completed the scoring in a match that had turned twice: Madrid built its advantage before halftime, Elche erased it in the second half, and Espí’s late finish gave Real Madrid the 3–2 result.