In their pursuit of the league title, Real Madrid picked up three more points against Athletic Club on their return to La Liga action after the international break. At the Santiago Bernabéu, Rodrygo stole the show as he scored both goals for the league leaders. In addition to the victory, Militão’s comeback after a 232-day absence due to injury was another noteworthy development for Madrid.

After just eight minutes, the side had already taken a 1-0 lead after coming out on top. Rodrygo drove to the edge of the box after receiving a lofted pass from Brahim in midfield, and he curled an incredible right-footed shot past Agirrezabala. From then on, Athletic Club controlled possession of the ball, but Real Madrid kept creating opportunities. In the 34th minute, Kroos attempted to score from outside the box, but the goalkeeper saved his attempt superbly. 

After five minutes, Valverde grabbed a rebound from outside the area in a corner. Once he brought the ball down with his thigh, he struck with such force with his right foot that the goalie had to scurry to keep it out. Tchouameni headed a corner from Kroos inches wide of the Bilbao post, almost making it 2-0.

In the second half, the game’s tempo and pace increased. In the 49th minute, Brahim was passed by Rodrygo, who put him through on goal; his shot went past Agirrezabala but hit the post. Williams attempted a close-range shot from Athletic Club in response, but Lunin made an excellent reflex stop. It was an end-to-end match, and after some nice passing between Carvajal, Valverde, and Brahim, Madrid once again appeared more likely, albeit Brahim’s effort narrowly missed.

After Rodrygo received a rebound from Vesga, he dashed into the box and was tackled by Lekue, creating a contentious scenario. Alberola Rojas whistled for a nonexistent offside because an Athletic player, not Bellingham, had made the prior pass. 

The crucial goal to make it 2-0 was created by both Madrid players. The Englishman set up Rodrygo for the goal, who calmly slotted the ball past Agirrezabala after beating Vivian with a lovely cut-back. On a very memorable evening for the Brazilian defender, Militão returned to the Santiago Bernabéu and received a standing ovation to complete the victory for the leaders. He had been out for more than seven months.