Real Madrid stamped their authority on the first El Clásico of the season with a 2–1 victory over Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabéu, sending a strong message to their fiercest rivals and reaffirming their title credentials.

Los Blancos entered the contest eager to avenge last season’s disappointments, and they did so in classic Madrid style — with intensity, precision, and moments of brilliance from their star players.

It didn’t take long for Kylian Mbappé to announce himself on the biggest stage in Spanish football. The French superstar unleashed a fierce drive from distance to give Madrid the early advantage, sending the Bernabéu faithful into raptures.

Barcelona, however, were not without fight. Fermín López, one of La Masia’s brightest products this season, continued his sparkling form by calmly slotting home the equalizer — a moment that silenced the home crowd and reminded everyone that Barça’s youth remains fearless.

But it was Jude Bellingham, Madrid’s golden boy, who once again proved decisive. The Englishman timed his run to perfection, arriving at the back post to tap in what would become the winning goal just before halftime.

Barcelona’s hopes of a comeback were dashed when Pedri received his marching orders, following a reckless lunge on Aurélien Tchouaméni. Down to ten men, the visitors struggled to regain their rhythm, leaving Madrid to control the closing stages comfortably.

The result sees Real Madrid climb to 27 points after 10 matches, opening up a five-point gap over second-placed Barcelona — a psychological blow in the early title race.

Opinion: Madrid’s Statement Win — and Barcelona’s Harsh Reality Check

This El Clásico felt like more than just three points; it was a statement of power and intent.

Madrid’s new era — powered by Mbappé’s flair and Bellingham’s relentless brilliance — looks unstoppable. Both players represent the future and the present of Real Madrid: young, confident, and decisive in big moments. Their chemistry is still developing, but when they click, the result is frightening for any opponent.

Barcelona, on the other hand, were brave but showed signs of growing pains. Fermín López’s emergence is a huge positive, but losing composure in key moments — as seen with Pedri’s red card — underlines their lack of maturity compared to Madrid’s seasoned control.

For Carlo Ancelotti, this win isn’t just revenge — it’s a statement of supremacy. For Xavi, it’s a reminder that while talent runs deep at Barcelona, experience and discipline still separate contenders from champions.

The season is far from over, but this El Clásico may have tilted momentum firmly toward Madrid — and if Mbappé and Bellingham continue to shine like this, the rest of La Liga might just be playing catch-up.