Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsi says the club’s demanding schedule cannot be used to explain their 2-1 LaLiga defeat by Real Madrid at Estadio Camp Nou.

Kylian Mbappe scored twice as Real Madrid ended Barcelona’s 100% start to their league title defence in a chaotic contest in Catalonia. The result gave Jose Mourinho’s side victory over their rivals.

Barcelona’s defence struggled against the pace and directness of Real Madrid’s attack, while the match came during a demanding run of five games in 15 days since the international break.

Cubarsi acknowledged the physical strain on the squad but insisted it did not justify the loss.

“I don't want to use this as an excuse, but the schedule has been extremely packed. We've had a lot of matches and played a lot of minutes.

“It's natural to feel some fatigue, but we can't use that to justify the defeat.”

Barcelona will look to respond when they face Alaves at home in LaLiga on October 31st.