Real Madrid have won El Clasico — and ended Barcelona's perfect start. Kylian Mbappe scored twice as Real Madrid beat LaLiga leaders Barcelona 2-1 at Camp Nou on Sunday 25 October, in a match that changes the title race completely. How the match went Mbappe put Madrid ahead in the 41st minute, when Yan Diomande's cross from the left was cleared by Gerard Martin straight off the French striker and into the net. Barcelona had a golden chance to level before half-time, but Lamine Yamal missed from close range. Barcelona did level in the 61st minute, when Pedri's reverse pass found Raphinha, who finished into the corner. But Madrid had the last word: in the 87th minute, after substitute Gabriel Jesus lost possession, Eduardo Camavinga beat Pau Cubarsi and squared for Mbappe to score into an empty net, with goalkeeper Joan Garcia out of position. Why this win matters Barcelona had won all nine of their opening LaLiga games and were chasing a first-ever 10 wins from 10. That run is now over. Real Madrid, still third, have cut the gap at the top to three points, with Atletico Madrid second, two points behind Barcelona. It was also a sweet return for Madrid coach Jose Mourinho, celebrating with a touchline knee-slide in his first El Clasico back in charge, 13 years after his first spell ended. Mbappe's milestone The brace took Mbappe to 100 goals for Real Madrid in 116 matches since joining from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 — and his 11th goal in 10 LaLiga games this season. In the battle of the Ballon d'Or contenders, Mbappe got the better of Yamal on the night.
No comments: