Real Madrid edges Barcelona 2-1 in heated El Clasico with Bellingham goal

Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Barcelona in the first El Clasico of the La Liga season, moving five points clear at the top of the league. Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham scored for Madrid, with Bellingham netting the winner just before halftime, while Barcelona's Fermin Lopez pulled one back. The match was marked by significant VAR interventions, including an overturned early penalty for Madrid and disallowed goals for both sides, contributing to a chaotic and controversial atmosphere. Barcelona played with a depleted squad and suffered a late red card to Pedri, further compounding their struggles. Despite some strong moments, Barcelona was largely on the back foot against a dominant Real Madrid display, which included a missed penalty by Mbappe and a tense touchline scuffle following the red card. The game reflected Real Madrid's determination to reverse their recent El Clasico fortunes, capturing their first win against Barcelona since April 2024.