Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2–1 at the Camp Nou on Sunday, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice to give José Mourinho’s side a crucial victory in the first El Clásico of the La Liga season.
Mbappé opened the scoring in the 41st minute when Yan Diomandé’s low cross deflected off Barcelona defender Gerard Martín and into the net. The French forward’s goal gave Madrid the advantage at half-time after an intense first period.
Barcelona responded after the break and drew level in the 61st minute through Raphinha, who finished from close range following a well-timed pass from Pedri. The goal lifted the home crowd and gave Hansi Flick’s side renewed hope of extending their winning run.
However, Madrid found the decisive breakthrough late in the match. In the 87th minute, Jude Bellingham helped launch a counterattack before Eduardo Camavinga drove forward and squared the ball for Mbappé, who finished to restore the visitors’ lead.
The late goal secured all three points for Madrid and capped a memorable performance from Mbappé, whose brace took him to 11 goals in 10 La Liga appearances this season.
The result ended Barcelona’s run of nine consecutive league victories at the start of the campaign. Despite the defeat, Barcelona remained top of the table with 27 points, while Madrid moved to 24 points, cutting the gap between the rivals to three.
Mourinho praised his players’ discipline and ability to exploit spaces on the counterattack, while Barcelona were left to reflect on missed chances and a late defensive lapse that proved costly.
The victory gives Real Madrid an important boost in the title race, although the season remains at an early stage and Barcelona retain the advantage at the top of the standings.