Bellingham, who won player of the match, was unstoppable as he made continuous challenges and several opportunities up front. He was purchased from Borussia Dortmund for 103 million euros with 30 million euros in add-ons.
Real Madrid's first chance came in the 14th minute when Federico Valverde hit a bullet shot from distance that sailed just wide of the crossbar.
Real scored in the 28th minute following an error by Athletic's defenders, who failed to clear a tackle won by Dani Carvajal inside the area. Rodrygo recovered the lost object quickly and skilfully, placing his shot between goalkeeper Unai Simon and the near post.
🏁 FP: @AthleticClub 0-2 @RealMadrid
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) August 12, 2023
⚽ @RodrygoGoes 28', @BellinghamJude 36'#AthleticRealMadrid | #Emirates pic.twitter.com/UGNGkRtKu7
Eight minutes later, Bellingham scored a stunning volley after latching onto a David Alaba corner with an arching effort that sailed over Simon and into the upper right corner.
Real was in complete control but was wasteful in the second half, missing multiple chances to expand their lead.
It also lost defender Eder Militao, who left the field in tears five minutes after the interval with what seemed to be a left knee injury.
With the game won, coach Carlo Ancelotti made many substitutions and seemed pleased after the final whistle.
Bellingham is a wonderful young man who puts forth a lot of effort and has character. To Movistar Plus, Ancelotti exclaimed, "He is simply fantastic."
He is a tremendous player and a huge signing, and he is really motivated to be here. It was a long game with a really high-level first half and a total control second half. We were on fire and motivated; we had a really great collective commitment and attitude; we won numerous fights; we worked together defensively; a clean sheet was positive.