Real Madrid vs Barcelona 2-1: La Liga – as it happened

La Liga Highlights: Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2–1 in an intense El Clásico clash. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring early on, while Jude Bellingham sealed the win with a decisive strike before halftime. Barcelona’s Pedri was sent off late in the match, leaving his team a man down as Madrid held on for a hard-fought victory.

Real Madrid claimed a thrilling 2-1 victory over Barcelona in the latest El Clásico clash at the Santiago Bernabéu, extending their lead at the top of the La Liga table. The match lived up to its reputation, packed with drama, intensity, and world-class moments. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring for Madrid early in the first half, showing his trademark pace and precision to beat Barcelona’s defense. Barcelona responded through young midfielder Fermín López, who equalized after a quick counterattack. However, just before halftime, Jude Bellingham restored Madrid’s advantage with a clinical finish after linking up beautifully with Vinícius Júnior.

The second half saw tempers flare, with several heated challenges and a controversial VAR decision overturning a potential penalty for Madrid. Barcelona pushed hard for an equalizer but struggled to break down Madrid’s organized defense. Late in the game, Pedri received a red card for a reckless tackle, leaving Barcelona with ten men and ending their comeback hopes. With this win, Real Madrid moved five points clear of their archrivals, sending a strong message in the title race. For Barcelona, it was a disappointing night marked by missed chances and defensive lapses, while Madrid celebrated a hard-earned and emotional triumph.

Real Madrid triumphed 2-1 over Barcelona in a thrilling El Clásico showdown at the Santiago Bernabéu, delivering a statement performance that keeps them firmly at the top of the La Liga table. The atmosphere was electric from the opening whistle, with both sides playing at an incredible pace. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring for Real Madrid after just 22 minutes, showcasing his trademark speed and sharp finishing to slot the ball past Barcelona’s goalkeeper. Barcelona, however, refused to back down. Young midfielder Fermín López equalized with a well-placed strike, briefly silencing the home fans and giving the visitors hope.

Just before halftime, Jude Bellingham produced another moment of brilliance, combining beautifully with Vinícius Júnior to restore Madrid’s lead. The English star’s composure under pressure once again proved decisive. In the second half, the match grew tense and physical, with several yellow cards and a controversial VAR decision that denied Madrid a penalty. Barcelona dominated possession but lacked cutting edge in the final third. Their frustrations peaked when Pedri was shown a red card late in the match, effectively ending their comeback hopes.

Real Madrid’s defense held strong until the final whistle, sealing an emotional win. The result pushes Madrid five points clear at the top, strengthening their grip on the title race, while Barcelona are left to reflect on wasted chances, discipline issues, and the growing gap between the two rivals. With Mbappé and Bellingham shining once again, Madrid look every bit the champions in waiting, while Barcelona must regroup quickly if they hope to stay in contention.