Real Madrid News
Real Madrid forward rolls back the years with stunning performance in Super Cup final
Real Madrid may have fallen short against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, but the match also offered a number of positives, none more significant than the performance of Vinicius Jr.
In a game defined by fine margins, the Brazilian forward stood out as Real Madrid’s most dangerous attacking outlet and a constant source of threat.
For Vinicius, this match marked a turning point after several difficult months in which confidence had been questioned.
From the opening minutes, he was central to Madrid’s attacking play, repeatedly receiving the ball in advanced areas and taking responsibility when the team needed initiative.
The brightest spark
That persistence was eventually rewarded. Vinicius scored to end a long and frustrating goal drought that had stretched to 19 consecutive matches without finding the net.
It was a run that had dragged his numbers down to their lowest level in five years, averaging one goal every 360 minutes.
The goal in the final did not change the outcome of the match, but it carried clear personal significance.
Statistically, Vinicius was the standout attacker on the pitch. He registered the most shots in the match with five attempts, four of which were on target.
He also completed more dribbles than any other player, beating his marker on four occasions.
Throughout the game, he targeted his direct opponent, Jules Kounde, forcing him into constant defensive adjustments.
A big match player
Big matches have often brought the best out of Vinicius, and this final was no exception.
He now has nine goals in 15 finals for Real Madrid. With that record, he is level with club legends Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Ferenc Puskas for total goal contributions in finals, all standing on 16.
Vinicius’ night ended in the 82nd minute when he was replaced by Franco Mastantuono. The change was not tactical.
After an exhausting display, the Brazilian asked to be substituted due to cramps and physical fatigue, and there is nothing serious about it.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
