Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday, moving five points clear at the top of La Liga. Jude Bellingham scored the decisive goal in the first half, helping Xabi Alonso’s side snap Barcelona’s winning streak in El Clásicos from last season. Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring for Madrid with a low finish after Bellingham’s clever pass, before Fermin López equalised for Barcelona in the 38th minute, assisted by Marcus Rashford.Bellingham restored Madrid’s lead five minutes later, tapping in after Eder Militao nodded Vinicius Jr.’s cross back into his path. Barcelona dominated possession in the first half, but Madrid were more dangerous on the break. An early penalty for Madrid was overturned after VAR review, and Mbappé had a goal disallowed for offside. Later, a penalty awarded to Madrid after Eric Garcia’s handball was denied by a fine save from Wojciech Szczesny. Barcelona were missing several key players, including Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and Dani Olmo. Lamine Yamal, returning from a groin injury, struggled to influence the game, sending a long-range effort well over the bar in the second half. Madrid maintained control in the closing stages, bringing on Rodrygo and Brahim Diaz, while Barcelona had few attacking options. Even a late effort from Ronald Araujo, pushed forward as a makeshift striker, failed to threaten Thibaut Courtois. Tensions boiled over in the final moments, with Pedri sent off for a second yellow card after a late foul on Aurelien Tchouameni.
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A brief sideline clash followed, with players from both sides involved after the final whistle. The win marks Madrid’s ninth victory in ten league games this season and highlighted their ability to perform in high-pressure matches, while Barcelona continue to manage squad limitations under Marcus Sorg, standing in for suspended coach Hansi Flick.
