Kylian Mbappe scored twice, including a late winner, as Real Madrid defeated Barcelona 2-1 in an exciting El Clasico encounter at Camp Nou.
The French striker scored four minutes before half-time before finding the net again in the 87th minute to secure all three points for Real Madrid.
Barcelona had hoped to make history by setting a new record for the most consecutive victories at the start of a Spanish top-flight season. However, Hansi Flick’s side failed to surpass Real Madrid’s record of nine straight wins, set in the 1968-69 season.
Mbappe opened the scoring in the 41st minute after Gerard Martin’s attempted clearance of Yan Diomande’s low cross deflected off the striker and into the net.
Both teams created scoring opportunities before the break, with Mbappe hitting the post while Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal missed a good chance at the other end.
Barcelona captain Raphinha restored parity 16 minutes into the second half. He collected a pass from Pedri before firing through the legs of Jude Bellingham into the far corner.
Barcelona pushed for a winner, but Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin produced an excellent save to deny Martin’s header shortly after the equaliser.
With the match heading towards a draw, Bellingham started a brilliant attacking move with a piece of skill in midfield. Substitute Eduardo Camavinga then drove forward and set up Mbappe, who finished into an unguarded net in the 87th minute.
Real Madrid secured the victory despite missing suspended forward Vinicius Jr and first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who was ruled out through illness.
Lunin impressed in his first appearance for the club this season, making several important saves to help his side claim the victory.
The result also strengthened Real Madrid’s position in the La Liga title race. Barcelona remain top of the table with 22 points after 10 matches, two points ahead of Atletico Madrid, while Real Madrid sit third, one point further behind.
Mbappe has continued his impressive goalscoring form in El Clasico since joining Real Madrid from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024. The 27-year-old has now scored eight goals in seven appearances against Barcelona in all competitions.
His two goals also took his La Liga tally this season to 11, leaving him behind only Raphinha, who has scored 13 league goals.
