El Clasico Recap: Barcelona’s Dominant Display Extends Lead Over Real Madrid
In a thrilling El Clasico clash, Robert Lewandowski scored twice within three minutes to lead Barcelona to a resounding 4-0 victory over Real Madrid at the Bernabeu. This win puts Barcelona six points ahead in La Liga and halts Real Madrid’s unbeaten league streak at 42 games, just shy of equalling the record set by Barcelona from 2017 to 2018.
After a goalless first half, Lewandowski opened the scoring in the 54th minute, converting Marc Casado‘s assist with a clinical finish. Moments later, he doubled the lead with a precise header from Alejandro Balde‘s cross, bringing his tally to 14 goals in 11 games this season. The 36-year-old Polish veteran has been instrumental in Barcelona’s title charge, leading a youthful team that includes emerging stars like **Lamine Yamal** and Casado.
Yamal, at just 17, etched his name into history by becoming the youngest El Clasico scorer, firing Barcelona’s third goal into the top corner. Raphinha capped off the dominant performance with a late lobbed goal, marking his first strike against Real Madrid. The victory showcased Barcelona’s successful blend of experienced players and homegrown talent, with six of their starters having graduated from their prestigious **La Masia** academy.
Kylian Mbappe’s debut Clasico ended in frustration, with two goals disallowed for offside and repeated denials by Barcelona’s goalkeeper Inaki Pena. Despite scoring six goals this season, Mbappe has struggled to find his rhythm in La Liga. Jude Bellingham also faced another scoreless match, extending his wait to open his account this season after a standout 19-goal campaign last year.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti reflected on the match, noting, “For 60 minutes, we competed very well, but those two quick goals took the wind out of our sails.” Barcelona’s high defensive line stifled Real Madrid’s attack, catching their forwards offside multiple times—a calculated risk that paid off, according to Barcelona’s Hansi Flick, who noted, “It looks dangerous – but it’s not dangerous.”
This emphatic victory reinforces Barcelona’s ambitions for the title and signals a new era powered by their youth combined with the invaluable leadership of seasoned players like Lewandowski.