Real Madrid overcame a red card setback to claim a 2-1 win at Real Sociedad, maintaining their 100% start to the La Liga season with four wins from four.
The result at the Reale Arena further strengthened their position at the top of the table under Xabi Alonso.
Los Blancos had to cope with playing for nearly an hour with ten men after summer signing Dean Huijsen was dismissed, yet they showed composure to secure another important win.
Mbappé and Güler masterclass
Madrid thought they had taken an early lead when Kylian Mbappé set up Arda Güler, but the goal was ruled out for offside in the build-up.
Kylian Mbappe opened scoring for Real Madrid – Getty image
The breakthrough arrived soon after, however, as Mbappé pounced on a misplaced pass from Mikel Goti and finished calmly past Alex Remiro.
Just past the half-hour mark, Huijsen was shown a straight red card for bringing down Mikel Oyarzabal as the last man.
Despite the setback, Madrid doubled their advantage when Mbappé created space down the left and squared for Güler, who converted from close range after initially passing up the chance.
Oyarzabal offers Sociedad hope
The hosts were handed a lifeline early in the second half. Dani Carvajal handled inside the area, allowing Oyarzabal to reduce the deficit from the penalty spot.
Sociedad pressed hard for an equaliser, forcing Madrid to sit deeper and defend their lead.
Alonso’s side absorbed pressure in the closing stages, holding out all three points.
Perfect start maintained
The win ensures Real Madrid remain top of La Liga with maximum points.