A Drab Yet Significant Win
Real Madrid edged Ferencváros 2–1 in a pre‑season friendly that, while lacking sparkle, delivered the results the coaching staff needed. The victory was secured in Budapest, where the Spanish side faced a compact Hungarian outfit.
Early in the first half, Mario Rivas opened the scoring in the 41st minute, his first senior goal for the club, before Carlos Espí doubled the lead just after the break with a well‑taken strike from a set‑piece mishap.
Ferencváros refused to fold, and Kenan Kodro’s timely equaliser just before the hour‑mark restored parity and injected urgency into the contest.
The match also marked the competitive debut of Vinícius Júnior, who had recently signed a six‑year extension. The Brazilian star appeared rusty, failing to complete a dribble, winning no duels and creating only two chances without finding the net.
Rodri’s reported inclination toward Barcelona added a layer of intrigue, as José Mourinho’s midfield reconstruction faced a setback. The Portuguese manager used the fixture to test a double pivot, with Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga showing mixed fortunes — Valverde improving after a slow start while Camavinga struggled.
Alexis Ciria contributed both a goal and an assist, his pinpoint cross setting up Rivas’ opener, and his defensive work helped keep a clean sheet for the first half.
What Comes Next?
Mourinho indicated that further tactical tweaks are on the agenda, with Bernardo Silva’s potential inclusion hinted at as the squad fine‑tunes its midfield balance. The coaching staff will use the remaining pre‑season games to iron out the kinks before the competitive season begins.