Bellingham Leads Real Madrid to 2-1 Clasico Victory Over Barcelona.

Jude Bellingham scored and assisted for the first time this La Liga season as Real Madrid secured a 2-1 win over Barcelona at the Bernabeu.

The England midfielder set up Kylian Mbappe for the opener in the 22nd minute with a defence-splitting through ball, before tapping in his own goal in the 43rd minute, restoring Real’s lead after Fermin Lopez had equalised for Barcelona.

It was Bellingham’s fourth goal in five Clasicos, as Xabi Alonso’s side moved five points clear at the top of La Liga. The match ended in chaos, with Pedri sent off and clashes erupting on the touchline.

Real came out aggressively, aiming to break Barcelona’s high defensive line from the first whistle. An early penalty appeal for Vinicius Jr was overturned by VAR, while Mbappe saw a 25-yard volley ruled out for offside. Bellingham’s pass to Mbappe opened the scoring, before a Barcelona counter led to Lopez’s equaliser. Bellingham then scored at the back post after a contested situation involving Dean Huijsen. Mbappe was denied a second goal due to another offside call.

In the second half, VAR awarded Real a penalty for a handball by Eric Garcia, but Szczesny made a brilliant save to keep the score 2-1. Bellingham had a late tap-in called offside, keeping the game tense until the final whistle.

Real Madrid analysis: Bellingham & team back with swagger

Bellingham, who had struggled for goals and assists after returning from shoulder surgery, dominated the midfield, creating chances and crashing the box like in his debut season. His assist to Mbappe was a textbook display of vision and composure. Under Alonso, Bellingham’s role has been simplified, allowing him to have maximum impact.

The only blot on Real’s performance was Vinicius Jr’s visible frustration after being substituted in the 72nd minute.

Barcelona analysis: High-line vulnerabilities and absences costly
Barcelona were hampered by injury absences in attack and defence. Their high defensive line was repeatedly exposed by the pace of Mbappe and Vinicius. While Szczesny made key saves, Barcelona struggled to mount consistent threats. Even with key players returning from injury, Real’s early-season form may leave Barcelona playing catch-up.