Kylian Mbappe scored twice to inspire Real Madrid to a 2-1 victory over Barcelona at Camp Nou on Sunday, handing the Catalan side their first LaLiga defeat of the season and reducing the gap at the top of the table to three points.
The French forward opened the scoring before half-time before netting a late winner after Raphinha had restored parity for the defending champions. The result secured a fifth consecutive victory across all competitions for Jose Mourinho’s Madrid, who are beginning to build momentum under the Portuguese coach.
Real Madrid took the lead in the 41st minute when Gerard Martin’s attempted clearance struck Mbappe and deflected into the net following a cross from Yan Diomande. Barcelona had opportunities to respond before the break, but Lamine Yamal failed to convert a promising chance.
Barcelona improved after the restart and drew level in the 61st minute. Pedri supplied Raphinha, who fired a low shot through Jude Bellingham’s legs and past goalkeeper Andriy Lunin to bring the hosts back into the contest.
The home side pressed for a second goal, but Madrid remained organised defensively and looked dangerous on the counterattack. Lunin made an important save to deny Martin, while Yamal sent another effort narrowly wide as Barcelona searched for a breakthrough.
Madrid eventually found the decisive goal in the 87th minute after a Barcelona attack broke down. Eduardo Camavinga led the counterattack and delivered a pass across the goalmouth, allowing Mbappe to finish into an unguarded net and secure all three points.
The victory was particularly significant for Mourinho, who returned to the Clasico as Real Madrid coach. He praised his players’ organisation, concentration and composure, especially after Barcelona equalised and threatened to take control of the match.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick acknowledged that his team lacked freshness after a demanding week that included a Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. He said the players needed to analyse the performance, improve and respond positively in their next fixture.
The defeat left Barcelona at the top of the standings on 27 points from 10 matches, with Atletico Madrid one point behind. Real Madrid remain third on 24 points, but the win has strengthened their hopes of challenging for the title.
Mbappe’s double also took his tally to 11 league goals in 10 appearances this season, underlining his importance to Madrid’s push for domestic honours.
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