Real coach Carlo Ancelotti had to replace his regular keeper Courtois, who suffered a serious knee injury, and, as expected, brought in Lunin from the start. In addition, newcomer and ex-Dortmunder Jude Bellingham started on the ten, while Kroos and Modric only took a seat on the bench.
Rodrygo opens – Bellingham follows suit
Both teams started with a bit of sand in the gears, especially Real had to find themselves in the new system without a real top. So the 48,927 spectators in San Mames didn’t see any highlights for a long time before Rodrygo caused danger for the first time and also scored directly. After a pass by Carvajal, the Brazilian scored the opener from a tight angle (28′).
From now on, the royals put a lot of pressure on and immediately wanted to add the second goal, but chances from Alaba (34th) and Vinicius Junior (36th) remained unused for the time being. A little later, however, the ball wriggled in the net: After a corner kick from Alaba, Bellingham was spot on, brought the ball from around 13 meters into the far corner and scored his first competitive goal for Real (36th).
Militao increases Madrid’s injury concerns
After the half-time break, the royals suffered a bitter setback, after a duel with Sancet Eder Militao had to be replaced injured (50th). Real continued and came through Vinicius Junior, who again lost his teeth on Unai Simon (71st).
Bilbao rarely got into good final situations, one of which was blocked by Alaba at the last moment (77th). All in all, Real Madrid landed a deserved work victory in the Basque Country and celebrated a successful start to the new La Liga season.
Bilbao can look forward to a Basque duel on matchday two. Athletic will visit Osasuna in Pamplona on Saturday from 9:30 p.m. Real Madrid are challenged again two hours earlier and take on Almeria at 19.30 CET.