Mbappé strikes twice as Real Madrid defeat Barcelona 2-1

Kylian Mbappé’s second goal late in the match gave Real Madrid a 2-1 victory over Barcelona at Camp Nou, moving José Mourinho’s side to within three points of the La Liga leaders. The French forward opened the scoring before half-time, registering his 10th league goal of the season. Barcelona equalised shortly after the interval through Raphinha, who was set up by Pedri and scored through Jude Bellingham’s legs, according to Channels Television and Al Jazeera.

Madrid then restored its advantage after a Barcelona attack broke down. Eduardo Camavinga advanced past Pau Cubarsí and cut the ball back for Mbappé, who finished into an unguarded net after goalkeeper Joan García had been drawn out of position. The defeat ended Barcelona’s unbeaten domestic start after nine straight league victories.

It was also the club’s second consecutive loss, following a Champions League defeat by Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday, the supplied reports said. Barcelona had dominated recent meetings between the teams, winning six of the previous seven Clásicos since Hansi Flick became coach. But the reports described the hosts as subdued during the opening period, when chances were limited and Madrid’s defence contained Mbappé’s early threat.

Barcelona had opportunities to respond. Lamine Yamal missed a chance before half-time and later bent an effort wide, while Andriy Lunin, starting because Thibaut Courtois withdrew with flu, made important saves. Raphinha’s equaliser briefly shifted the momentum, but Madrid survived further pressure.

Madrid were without the suspended Vinícius Júnior and still recorded a fifth successive victory in all competitions. The result was presented by the reports as evidence that Mourinho’s team was beginning to settle after two trophyless seasons. Barcelona midfielder Pedri told DAZN that his side had not played well, particularly in the first half, but cautioned that the league would not be decided by this match.

Real Madrid remained third, behind Barcelona and Atlético Madrid, while Barcelona’s defeat offered its rivals an opportunity to close the early gap.