BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Vinícius Júnior came off the bench to provide an assist and score another as Real Madrid beat a stubborn Espanyol 4-1 in Spanish league play on Saturday.

Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García saved several shots, including one from Kylian Mbappé, before the Olympic gold medallist launched an attack with a long pass from his penalty area that ended with an own goal by his counterpart Thibaut Courtois in the 54th minute.

García’s only slip of the game allowed Dani Carvajal to equalise four minutes later when Jude Bellingham’s low pass slipped under the goalkeeper and the Madrid right-back only had to nudge the ball over the line to make it 1-1.

Vinícius was rested in the first half while Carlo Ancelotti rotated his attacking line-up, but the coach sent the Brazilian striker on immediately after Espanyol equalised. Vinícius then took control and fired a perfect cross with the tip of his left foot that helped Rodrygo score in the 75th minute.

Vinícius scored his goal against García in the 78th minute after Espanyol lost possession and Mbappé allowed his striker to run free on the counterattack.

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

Madrid are just one point behind leaders Barcelona ahead of their match at Villarreal on Sunday.

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