Star substitute Vinicius sets up a goal and scores another, and Real Madrid beat Espanyol

Vinicius Junior came off the bench to set up a goal and score another Real Madrid beat a stubborn Espanyol 4-1 in the Spanish league on Saturday.

Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia made several saves, including on shots from Kylian Mbappé before the Olympic gold medallist launched an attack with a long pass from his box that ended in an own goal Thibaut Courtois in the 54th minute.

Garcia's only misstep in the match Dani Carvajal equalize four minutes later when Jude Bellingham The low pass slid under the keeper. The Real Madrid right-back only had to push the ball over the line to make it 1-1.

Vinicius rested in the first half while Carlo AncelottI rotated his group of attackers. But the coach sent the Brazilian striker on immediately after Spanish leveled. Vinicius then took control, curling a perfect cross with the outside toe of his left shoe to Rodrygo to score in the 75th.

Vinícius beat García in the 78th minute for his goal after Espanyol lost the ball and Mbappé let his strike partner clear on the counterattack.

Mbappe converted a penalty in the 90th minute after Endrick came on late in the game and won a penalty from Carlos Romero.

Real Madrid moved within a point of leaders Barcelona before playing at Villarreal on Sunday.