Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2–1 in Sunday’s El Clásico, with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice to secure a significant away victory and end the hosts’ winning start to the LaLiga campaign.

Mbappé opened the scoring in the 41st minute before Raphinha equalised for Barcelona in the 61st. The French forward then struck again late in the match to give Real Madrid all three points.

The result ended Barcelona’s run of nine consecutive victories to begin their league campaign. Despite the defeat, Barcelona remained top of the standings with 27 points after 10 matches, two points ahead of Atlético Madrid and three clear of Real Madrid.

Mbappé gives Madrid the lead

Real Madrid began the match with attacking intent, creating opportunities through Arda Güler and testing Barcelona’s defence with quick forward movements.

The visitors broke the deadlock in the 41st minute. A move involving Bernardo Silva, Marc Cucurella and Yan Diomande ended with Barcelona defender Gerard Martín attempting to clear the ball. His attempted clearance deflected off Mbappé and into the net, giving Madrid a 1–0 lead.

Barcelona responded with an opportunity of their own, but Lamine Yamal was unable to convert from close range. Madrid continued to threaten before half-time, with Diomande coming close to doubling the advantage.

The visitors went into the interval ahead after a first half in which their attacking transitions caused problems for the home side.

Raphinha brings Barcelona level

Barcelona returned from the break determined to find an equaliser, increasing the pressure on Madrid and looking to create openings in the attacking third.

Their efforts were rewarded in the 61st minute. Following a quickly taken corner, Pedri worked the ball into position for Raphinha, who finished with a low shot into the corner to make it 1–1.

The goal gave Barcelona renewed momentum, and the home side pushed forward in search of a second. Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin was called upon to keep the score level, including with a save from a Gerard Martín header.

However, Madrid remained dangerous on the counterattack, ensuring that the contest stayed open as the final minutes approached.

Mbappé seals the victory

Real Madrid delivered the decisive blow late in the match through a well-worked attacking move.

Jude Bellingham helped initiate the move before Arda Güler linked up with Eduardo Camavinga. Camavinga advanced past Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí and supplied Mbappé, who finished to restore Madrid’s lead.

The goal completed Mbappé’s brace and brought his total to 100 goals for Real Madrid, according to the club’s official match report.

Barcelona attempted to respond during the closing stages, but Madrid held on to secure a 2–1 victory at Spotify Camp Nou.

What the result means

The victory strengthened Real Madrid’s position in the title race, bringing the club within three points of Barcelona after 10 league matches.

Barcelona remained top of the standings with 27 points, while Atlético Madrid sat two points behind and Real Madrid a further point back.

For Madrid, the result demonstrated the value of clinical finishing in a closely contested match. For Barcelona, the defeat ended a remarkable opening run but left the club at the summit of the league table.

With much of the season still to play, the result gives Real Madrid an important boost and adds further intensity to the rivalry between Spain’s two leading clubs.