Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday to end a four-game losing run against their rivals and move five points clear at the top of La Liga.
Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring midway through the first half after finishing off a sharp counter-attack. Barcelona responded through Fermín López, who levelled with a composed strike in the 38th minute. Jude Bellingham restored Madrid’s lead just before halftime with a powerful effort that sealed the victory.
The win, Madrid’s first against Barcelona since 2023, marked a crucial step in their title campaign. The team showed greater control and discipline throughout the match, dominating possession and maintaining pressure on the Catalan defense.
Barcelona struggled to create clear chances after the break and finished with ten men when Pedri was sent off in stoppage time. Tempers flared in the closing moments as both benches clashed following a foul on Vinícius Júnior, prompting security to step in.
Manager Xabi Alonso praised his players for their composure and tactical discipline, saying the team had “found the right balance between aggression and control.”
Mbappe reaction after scoring the opener - Bernat Armangue/AP Photo
The victory lifts Madrid to 27 points, widening their gap over Barcelona, who remain second. With this result, Madrid strengthen their hold on the La Liga title race and regain momentum after a tough run in recent fixtures.
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