Kylian Mbappe struck late to secure a 2-1 victory for Real Madrid over Barcelona in the El Clasico at Camp Nou, ending the hosts’ three-year wait for a home win over their arch-rivals.
The result extended Barcelona’s difficult run following their defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League, which ended their 11-match unbeaten streak in the competition.
Real Madrid took the lead in the 41st minute after sustained attacking pressure. A delivery from Yan Diomande caused confusion in the Barcelona penalty area, with Gerard Martin inadvertently turning the ball into his own net.
Barcelona responded after the break and drew level in the 61st minute. Pedri played a reverse pass into Raphinha’s path, and the Brazilian finished with a quick shot that beat goalkeeper Andriy Lunin despite the latter getting a hand to the ball.
The hosts pushed for a second goal, but Lunin denied Martin with a strong save from a header in the 66th minute. Lamine Yamal also came close after weaving past defenders, only to see his attempt narrowly miss the target.
Mbappe had threatened earlier in the match, while Arda Guler tested Barcelona goalkeeper Joan Garcia during an eventful first half. Raphinha also missed an opportunity before Real Madrid broke the deadlock.
With the contest heading towards a draw, Jude Bellingham helped create the decisive move in the 87th minute before Eduardo Camavinga delivered a cutback for Mbappe, who finished to give Madrid the lead.
The goal marked Mbappe’s 100th for Real Madrid across competitions. His tally includes 67 goals in La Liga, 25 in the Champions League, four in the Copa del Rey, two in the FIFA Club World Cup, and one each in the UEFA Super Cup and Spanish Super Cup.
Mbappe has scored 14 goals for Madrid so far this season, further underlining his importance to the side as they secured a significant victory over their biggest rivals.
