Jude Bellingham scored a superb individual goal as Real Madrid defeated Malaga 4-0 in La Liga to give returning head coach Jose Mourinho a third consecutive victory.
England midfielder Bellingham opened the scoring in the 19th minute with his second goal of the season. He collected possession around 35 yards from goal, drove forward past three Malaga players and fired beyond goalkeeper Alfonso Herrero.
The played a major role in Real Madrid’s second goal seven minutes later. After Herrero had saved an initial attempt, Bellingham headed the loose ball towards goal. It struck the Malaga goalkeeper and crossed the line, with the goal officially recorded as an own goal by Herrero.
Real Madrid extended their advantage before the half-hour mark, effectively settling the contest.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was not selected in England’s squad for the World Cup, supplied the assist for the third goal. His excellent cross from the right was met by Kylian Mbappe, who volleyed the ball into the net.
The hosts completed the scoring in stoppage time after a swift counter-attack. Vinicius Jr reached the byeline and pulled the ball back into the area, allowing Arda Guler to finish from close range.
The result leaves Real Madrid top of the table with nine points. Barcelona can move level with them on Monday if they beat Rayo Vallecano at home.
Mourinho praised Bellingham after the final whistle, describing him as an “incredible player”.
“He is very demanding of himself and he is also demanding of others. I didn’t want to see him defend almost like a second left-back.”
The Portuguese manager was also asked about the attacking relationship between Bellingham, Vinicius Jr and Mbappe.
“Very, very good players want to play together always, because they have the same speed of thought, the same quality and they always have to be compatible.
“It was said that I didn’t want the three, but what I say is that I always want the best. There is empathy and collective work. They are all very good.”
Bellingham had scored seven goals during the summer’s World Cup, helping the Three Lions finish third, before continuing his form with his latest contribution for Real Madrid.
Mourinho returned to the Real Madrid head coach role in the summer. His previous spell in charge ran from 2010 to 2013, during which time he led the club to the Copa del Rey in 2010-11 and the La Liga title the following season.
