Barcelona (Spain): Kylian Mbappe scored twice as Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 at Camp Nou on Sunday, October 25, handing the La Liga leaders their first domestic defeat of the season and cutting the gap at the top to three points.

Mbappe opened the scoring before half-time when a clearance by Barcelona defender Gerard Martin deflected into his path. The French forward made no mistake, registering his 10th league goal of the campaign.

Barcelona responded after the break, with Raphinha equalising shortly after the hour mark. The Brazilian fired through Jude Bellingham’s legs after being set up by Pedri, leaving Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin unable to keep out the shot.

The hosts pushed for a winner, but Lunin made crucial saves to keep Madrid in the contest. The visitors struck late when substitute Gabriel Jesus lost possession, triggering a swift counter-attack. Eduardo Camavinga beat Pau Cubarsi before squaring the ball for Mbappe to score into an empty net.

The victory was Madrid’s fifth consecutive win across all competitions and boosted confidence in Jose Mourinho’s side. The coach praised his team’s organisation, concentration and composure against Barcelona’s pressing game.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick said his players lacked freshness after suffering a second successive defeat, following their Champions League loss to Paris Saint-Germain.

Barcelona had won their opening nine league matches, while Madrid remain third behind Atletico Madrid and Barcelona. The result, however, strengthened Madrid’s hopes of challenging for the title.