Real Madrid secured a 3-0 victory over Schalke in their final preseason friendly on August 16, 2026, in Gelsenkirchen, Germany [1, 2, 3]. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring early by intercepting a poor back pass and putting the ball in the net [1, 2, 3]. The second goal came from Dean Huijsen, who headed home a corner delivered by Arda Guler [1, 2, 3]. Carlos Espí sealed the win with a second-half header [1, 2, 3].
Yan Diomande, Real Madrid's record signing at 140 million euros (S$207 million), made his first appearance for the club coming off the bench [1, 2, 3]. Jude Bellingham, who recently returned to training after an absence, also featured as a substitute [1, 2, 3]. Two other summer signings, Ibrahima Konaté and Bernardo Silva, started the match, while Marc Cucurella made his debut as a substitute [3].
Under the leadership of new coach José Mourinho, in his second spell with the club, Real Madrid remain unbeaten in all four preseason games played so far [1, 2, 3]. Their preparations continue ahead of the La Liga season opener, scheduled for August 23, 2026, away against Espanyol [3].
On the same day, Barcelona defeated Basel 5-2 in a friendly match, featuring their new signings Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi [1, 2]. Barcelona will play another friendly at home against Al Ahly on August 19 before starting their La Liga campaign at home versus Elche on August 23 [1, 2].
