Madrid was a few minutes away from losing its perfect record when Benzema came through with two late goals, scoring in the 88th minute and deep into stoppage time.

Madrid was far from its best but Benzema helped to salvage the win with a nice close-range touch to complete a well-placed cross by Rodrygo.

Benzema than easily converted a free kick after Espanyol defender Leandro Cabrera had to play in goal because goalkeeper Benjamin Lecomte was sent off and all substitutions had been made.

Vinicius Junior had put Madrid ahead in the 12th and Joselu equalized for the hosts in the 43rd.

It was the third match in a row on the road for Madrid, which asked to start away from home because of renovation work at its Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. The team will be back at the venue for its match against Real Betis on Saturday.

Madrid beat Almeria and Celta Vigo in its first two games. Espanyol stayed winless after having drawn at Celta before losing to Rayo Vallecano at home.

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