Federico Valverde scored early as Real Madrid recorded a comfortable 4-1 victory over Leganés in a behind-closed-doors pre-season friendly at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stéfano.
The match marked the second fixture of José Mourinho’s second spell in charge of Real Madrid. The head coach evaluated a mix of established senior players and emerging talent at Valdebebas.
Real Madrid took the lead in the 21st minute when Arda Güler set up Valverde with a precise pass into the penalty area. Valverde made no mistake with his finish to put the home side ahead.
The hosts doubled their lead just four minutes later through Gonzalo García. New arrival Trent Alexander-Arnold picked him out with a long pass, allowing Gonzalo García to loft the ball over the goalkeeper.
Leganés pulled a goal back in the 36th minute when Naim García finished off an attacking move to make it 2-1 before half-time.
Real Madrid reasserted control early in the second period, extending their lead in the 58th minute. Franco Mastantuono pounced on a rebound after an Alexander-Arnold shot was saved.
Just a minute later, the victory was wrapped up under unfortunate circumstances for the visitors. Leganés defender Rubén Pulido inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.
Key figures including Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham remained rested following the 2026 World Cup. New signing Denzel Dumfries watched the contest from the stands.
Mourinho rotated heavily in the final 20 minutes to hand playing time to youth and academy players as Real Madrid continue their pre-season preparation.
