La Liga - Espanyol v Real Madrid live score: Vinicius Junior gives visitors early lead, Joselu grabs equaliser

They may have left it late but two Karim Benzema strikes prove the difference as Real Madrid extend their 100% winning record in La Liga.

It's three wins from three as Los Blancos take their place at the top of the league.

Oh, what a goal! It's worth the wait as Benzema bends it into the bottom corner.

The defender Cabrera, who has taken the goalkeeper's shirt, can't do anything but watch as it nestles in the net.

Lecomte is shown a straight red card for a foul on Ceballos on the edg of the penalty area. It takes an age for the decision to be made, but the referee finally shows the Espanyol goalkeeper his marching orders after reviewing the replay on the pitch-side monitor.

Still time for some late drama.

Gomez comes on for Exposito as the hosts desperately search for a late, late equaliser.

There's the winner!

Benzema pops up in the 88th minute to poke home Rodrygo's back post cross to surely give Real Madrid all three points.

Carvajal takes the place of Vazquez. One last roll of the dice.

Vinicius Jr takes a tumble inside the box but replays show Gil won the ball absolutely fairly.

This has been an excellent defensive showing by Espanyol.

Kroos has been replaced by Dani Ceballos for the final 10 minutes as Ancelotti looks to inject some energy in midfield.

Joselu with a tame, tired effort that is dragged well wide of goal.

Espanyol fans are turning up the volume as we approach the final 10 minutes.

Puado is replaced by Nicolas Ribaudo.

Espanyol win a corner. It's delivered into the mix but Rudiger heads clear.

With 15 minutes remaining in this tie, it remains in the balance. Full credit to Espanyol, they're not settling for a draw.

Vinicius is unable to continue after picking up a knock and he'll be replaced by Bare.

Camavinga is allowed to run through the Espanyol midfield with relative ease before teeing up Kroos. His low shot is turned in by Benzema but the linesman's flag is immediately up and the goal won't stand.

Benzema is caught offside once more. His timing has just been off so far tonight. Most unlike him.

Camavinga lays it off to Benzema on the edge of the penalty area. He opens up his body and curls a shot towards goal, aiming for the far corner. Lecomte watches it all the way and is at full stretch to push it wide.

You will do well to see a better save this weekend!

There is a host of bodies in front of him but Courtois somehow keeps Joselu's venomous shot from point-blank range out!

Rodrygo comes on for Valverde.

The introduction of Camavinga will give Madrid fresh legs in midfield. He replaces Modric.