Kylian Mbappe scored twice as Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2-1 in Sunday’s El Clasico at Camp Nou, ending the hosts’ hopes of setting a new record for consecutive wins at the start of a La Liga season.
The French forward scored before half-time and struck again in the 87th minute to give Real Madrid a crucial victory in the Spanish league.
Barcelona entered the match hoping to record a 10th consecutive victory and surpass the record of nine straight wins set by Real Madrid in the 1968-69 season. However, Hansi Flick’s side fell short of the historic mark.
Mbappe opened the scoring in the 41st minute when Gerard Martin’s attempted clearance of Yan Diomande’s low cross deflected off the striker and beat goalkeeper Joan Garcia.
Real Madrid had other chances to extend their lead, with Mbappe hitting the post, while Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal missed an opportunity to equalise before the break.
Barcelona drew level 16 minutes into the second half through captain Raphinha, who collected Pedri’s pass before firing the ball into the far corner through Jude Bellingham’s legs.
The hosts pushed for another goal, but Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin made an important one-handed save to keep out Martin’s header.
Just when the match appeared to be heading for a draw, Bellingham started a quick attacking move in midfield. Substitute Eduardo Camavinga carried the ball forward before setting up Mbappe, who finished into an empty net to seal the win.
Real Madrid claimed the victory without suspended forward Vinicius Jr and first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who missed the game through illness. Lunin stepped in and produced an impressive performance, making several key saves.
The result leaves Barcelona at the top of La Liga with a two-point lead over Atletico Madrid after 10 matches. Real Madrid are third, one point behind Atletico.
Mbappe has now scored eight goals in seven El Clasico appearances since joining Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024.
The 27-year-old has also taken his league tally this season to 11 goals, with only Raphinha, who has scored 13, ahead of him.
