WATCH: Endrick nets amazing goal from long range for Real Madrid

Federico Valverde, Brahim Diaz, and Endrick scored goals in the second half to give weak Real Madrid an easy 3-0 victory over bottom-dwelling Real Valladolid on Sunday, giving the reigning champion its first La Liga victory of the year.

Real Madrid controlled possession, but it was unable to break through Valladolid's extremely defensive strategy until the 50th minute, when Valverde scored a thundering goal from the outside of the penalty area to break the tie.

The victory was sealed by late goals by Endrick, six minutes into extra time and replacement Diaz during the 88th minute, but it did not fully reflect their disappointing effort. 

ENDRICK GOAL! 🤍 pic.twitter.com/7M6J8Stv3t

— Nick (@NickRTFM) August 25, 2024

For the first 45 minutes, Carlo Ancelotti's team was not up to par. They were unable to generate many clear-cut opportunities; the only noteworthy one was when Karl Hein, the Valladolid custodian, denied Kylian Mbappe. In the capital of Spain, La Pucela had a strong defence, but five minutes after the second half, they found themselves exposed.

Federico Valverde shattered the game open for Real Madrid, just like he did during the UEFA Super Cup final. He was twenty-five yards out when he fired a free-kick towards the far corner, and Hein had no chance due to a deflection.

With four points after two games, Real Madrid is currently in third in La Liga, two points behind leaders Barcelona and Celta Vigo. Although Real Madrid drew in their 2024–25 La Liga season opener last weekend, they have already secured three points of the season. 

Arda Guler plays ahead of Luka Modric and Brahim Diaz!

The main concern surrounding Real Madrid prior to this match was Carlo Ancelotti's plan for Jude Bellingham's replacement after the player hurt himself during practice on Friday. While Arda Güler and Brahim Díaz offered alternative options that Ancelotti could consider for the third midfield position, Luka Modrić was considered the most likely contender. 

Finally, the youngster from Turkey, starting just his second league game at the Bernabéu, would be chosen. He was unquestionably more right-sided than Bellingham, but he played in an even more forward midfield role, so it was an interesting option.