Brilliant Bellingham off the mark as Madrid down United
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Jude Bellingham scored the first goal of his Real Madrid career as the Spanish giants defeated Manchester United 2-0 in a pre-season friendly in Houston on Wednesday.
English midfielder Bellingham, who joined Madrid from Borussia Dortmund in a $114 million transfer in June, opened his account with an exquisite finish after just six minutes.
Madrid defender Antonio Rudigercaught the United defence napping with a superbly weighted ball that sent Bellingham bearing down on goal.
The 20-year-old took one touch to control and then lifted a delicate chip over on-rushing United goalkeeperAndre Onana to give Madrid a deserved lead.
Brazilian international Vinicius Jr. might have doubled the Madrid lead shortly afterwards but scuffed his shot from eight yards out to let United off the hook.
United, meanwhile, almost got back on level terms after 36 minutes, but Marcus Rashfordwas just unable to find the target from a tight angle.
Former Man United winger on verge of making return to the EPL
FootballWith Madrid in control, United's frustration boiled over shortly before half-time when Lisandro Martinez clattered into Bellingham with a wild tackle. Bellingham reacted angrily and Martinez earned a booking for the challenge.
After a flurry of changes at half-time United looked improved after the break, but Madrid created the better chances, with Militao almost making it 2-0 on 69 minutes only to see his shot cleared off the line.
Madrid finally made the game safe in the 89th minute, with Lucas Vazquez crossing for veteran forward Joselu to light up the NRG Stadium with a stunning overhead kick for 2-0.
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