Real worries as Madrid lose again

Espanyol 1 Real Madrid 0

Michael Owen’s unspectacular start to life with Real Madrid continued as he was substituted early in the second half after making his first start for the club, as they lost 1-0 to unfancied Espanyol.

David Beckham, captain Raul and Fernando Morientes all started the game on the bench after the 3-0 mauling at the hands of Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Rodriguez Maxi fired the home side in front as half-time approached but Espanyol had missed a golden opportunity to take the lead shortly before, captain Raul Tamudo missing a penalty twice after the first had to be re-taken.

The highlight of Owen’s match was a neat cross which Roberto Carlos failed to connect with, and he was taken off and replaced by Morientes after 64 minutes.

Beckham replaced Juanfran after 55 minutes but, as Madrid lost Walter Samuel for a second yellow card, he was unable to inspire a comeback.

Ronaldo added to Real’s woes by missing a penalty.