Espanyol launches season with brilliant 3-0 win against Levante

Espanyol kicked off La Liga 26-27 in style. A 3-0 thrashing against Levante allowed Manolo González's side to celebrate their debut with joy and composure, a stark contrast to the suffering endured at home during last season. According to Mundo Deportivo, the victory was comfortable and deserved, with a well-tuned team that dominated a toothless Levante without breaking a sweat.

Roberto settles any doubts

Roberto Fernández stole the show with a clinical brace. Without Kike García and Puado available until autumn due to injury, the Córdoba-born striker carried the responsibility of leading the attack and delivered perfectly from minute 5 with the opener after an Expósito free-kick. Manager Manolo González had predicted in the buildup that Roberto "would explode this year" and he proved him right from the start.

Stellar midfield debut

The midfield ran like clockwork with standout performances from Javi Hernández, who not only set up Roberto's second goal in the 40th minute but was a constant thorn in Levante's defence. Hinojo and Clatrava also shone in a lineup packed with summer signings that created constant danger. Tyrhys Dolan sealed the rout in the 80th with an acrobatic volley that wrapped up the feast.

The only sour note was Cabrera's absence from the starting XI due to carrying a suspension from last season that couldn't be overturned despite last-minute appeals.