El Clasico: Real Madrid end Barcelona’s title defence hopes in thrilling 3-2 win
Real Madrid emerged victorious with a dramatic 3-2 win over Barcelona on Sunday night’s thrilling El Clasico encounter.
The defeat at Santiago Bernabeu ends the La Blaugrana’s slim chances of defending the La Liga title.
Barcelona started brightly, with Andreas Christensen breaking the deadlock, capitalizing on Raphinha’s corner to give the visitors an early lead within the first ten minutes.
However, Real Madrid quickly responded, with Vinicius Junior converting from the penalty spot to level the score.
Barcelona’s La Liga title defense hopes shattered after defeat in El Clasico cash against Real Madrid – Getty image
Lamine Yamal thought he had put Barcelona ahead again, only for his goal to be ruled out by VAR.
The match took a sour turn for Barcelona as they suffered an injury blow with Frenkie de Jong sustaining an ankle injury just before halftime.
Despite the challenge, Barcelona regained the lead through substitute Fermin Lopez’s finish inside the box.
However, Real Madrid once again clawed their way back into the game, with Lucas Vazquez leveling the score for the second time.
With the match seemingly heading for a draw, Bellingham delivered the decisive blow, netting his 17th league goal of the season to secure a crucial win for Real Madrid.
The result dashes Barcelona’s hopes of a late claim for the La Liga title, while Real Madrid now have a clear path to pursue it.
With just a few games left in the season, Real Madrid now require a maximum of eight points to seal the La Liga title.
