Madrid, October 26, 2025 — Real Madrid reclaimed bragging rights in the world’s most iconic club fixture by defeating Barcelona 2-1 in a pulsating El Clásico at home. The result extends Madrid’s lead at the top of La Liga and gives them a crucial psychological edge over their Catalan rivals.
The match started with intensity. In the 22nd minute, Kylian Mbappé, who continues to rewrite his European legacy, broke the deadlock by finishing a perfectly timed through-ball from Bellingham. (Reuters)
Barcelona didn’t stay down for long. In the 38th minute, Fermín López capitalised on a defensive lapse by Madrid’s Arda Güler to equalise, burying a low finish after a swift counter-attack. (Reuters)
Back came Madrid—and just before halftime, Bellingham made his mark. A superb run and assist from Vinícius Júnior preceded a composed finish from Bellingham inside the six-yard box to put Madrid 2-1 up at the break. (Reuters)
Despite Barcelona’s attempts to respond, Madrid held firm. The hosts denied a late equaliser and saw the visitors reduced to 10 men when Pedri picked up a second yellow card deep in stoppage time following a sliding tackle. (Reuters)
After the match, Madrid’s coach Xabi Alonso praised his team’s mental resilience. “We showed character when it mattered,” he said. For Barcelona boss Hansi Flick, the margin of defeat was a bitter pill. “We played with courage, but details made the difference,” he admitted.
Why It Matters
The victory brings Real Madrid to 27 points, extending a clear lead in the title race. (Reuters)
Bellingham’s goal further cements his status as a big-match player, while Mbappé’s consistency in El Clásico places him in elite company. (TalkSport)
For Barcelona, they must revisit finishing efficiency and defensive focus if they are to recover momentum this season.
The result underlines a shifting balance in Spanish football, where Madrid’s attacking depth and experience may give them the edge in the long run.
