Barcelona’s unbeaten La Liga run ends as Mbappe powers Real Madrid to first El Clasico win of the season

Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2-1 in the first El Clasico of the season at Camp Nou on Sunday, with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice to secure a crucial victory for Jose Mourinho's side. The result moved Madrid within three points of La Liga leaders Barcelona and ended the hosts' unbeaten start to the league campaign.

Mbappe opened the scoring in the 41st minute after a cross into the Barcelona penalty area took a deflection off the French forward and went into the net. Barcelona had chances to respond before half-time, but Lamine Yamal failed to convert a promising opportunity as Madrid carried their lead into the break.

Raphinha brings Barcelona back into the game

Barcelona increased the pressure after the restart and found an equaliser in the 61st minute. Raphinha finished a move involving Lamine Yamal and Pedri, with the Brazilian sending a low shot past Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin to make it 1-1.

The hosts continued to search for a winner, but Madrid remained a threat on the counterattack. Lunin made an important save to deny Gerard Martin, helping the visitors stay level before their late push.

Mbappe seals Real Madrid’s El Clasico win

Real Madrid found the decisive goal in the 87th minute. Eduardo Camavinga carried the ball into the penalty area before setting up Mbappe, who finished to restore Madrid’s lead and complete his brace.

Barcelona could not find another equaliser in the closing stages as Madrid held on for all three points. The brace also took Mbappe to 100 goals for Real Madrid since joining the club from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024.

The victory had a significant impact on the La Liga standings. Barcelona remained top with 27 points from 10 matches, while Atletico Madrid sat second with 25 points. Real Madrid moved to 24 points in third place, reducing the gap to their rivals to three points.

Madrid were without Vinicius Junior, who was serving a domestic suspension, while regular goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois missed the match due to flu. Andriy Lunin started in goal in his absence.

For Barcelona, the defeat came after their Champions League loss to Paris Saint-Germain earlier in the week. Hansi Flick’s side will now look to respond as the La Liga title race gathers pace.