Real Madrid delivered a commanding performance at the Bernabéu, beating Barcelona 2-1 to extend their lead at the top of La Liga to five points. Xabi Alonso’s team combined precision, intensity, and tactical discipline in his first Clasico as manager. Jude Bellingham ended his goal drought with his first league goal and an assist after recovering from shoulder surgery. Kylian Mbappé continued his lethal scoring streak, leading the attack with confidence. Yet the victory was overshadowed by Vinicius Jr’s furious reaction to being substituted.
The Brazilian winger erupted in the 72nd minute when replaced. He ignored Alonso, stormed down the tunnel, and returned to the bench visibly frustrated. Spanish football expert Guillem Balague analysed Madrid’s control and the growing tension between Vinicius and the club.
Alonso’s tactics give Madrid control and balance
Alonso’s debut Clasico as manager proved a statement of intent. Seven of Real Madrid’s last eight coaches had lost their first league encounter with Barcelona. After Carlo Ancelotti’s loose approach faltered last season, Alonso’s structured system brought immediate results.
“He got it perfectly. Real Madrid were superb, and Barcelona struggled to cope,” Balague said. “Madrid pressed high, regrouped quickly when beaten, and even Vinicius tracked back. Their lines were tight, five to ten metres apart, leaving Barcelona with no options.”
The system also unlocked Jude Bellingham’s impact. Last season, he carried too much responsibility in midfield. Now, his role is structured yet flexible. He started on the right but often drifted inside to link with Mbappé or attack the box.
“With Eduardo Camavinga in midfield, Madrid gained energy and control,” Balague explained. “Bellingham pressed intelligently, created danger, and attacked near the box. He disrupted Barcelona’s midfield all game.”
Vinicius outburst highlights internal tension
Vinicius remains a fan favourite, with chants ringing across the Bernabéu. Yet behind the scenes, his relationship with the club is tense. Reports suggest Madrid might sell him if a large offer arrives, and contract talks have stalled, leaving one year on his deal.
His angry reaction to being substituted highlighted the strain. After full-time, he tried to confront Lamine Yamal before being restrained. “He deserves criticism for disrespecting Rodrygo, who replaced him,” Balague said. “But Vinicius has always felt isolated and under pressure. He believes he is near the top, yet the club’s focus has shifted to Mbappé.”
Balague added that Vinicius feels unsupported. “There are reports Madrid wouldn’t refuse €250 million for him, and he senses that. When Alonso substituted him—fairly, since he stopped defending—he thought, ‘why me again?’ Rebuilding trust will be difficult.”
Barcelona struggle under Madrid pressure
Barcelona’s defeat reflected their inconsistent start to the season. After winning all four Clasicos last year, they looked unbalanced and slow. Injuries to Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and Dani Olmo have weakened Hansi Flick’s system.
“They look slower and less aggressive,” Balague said. “Their pressing is weaker, leaving space for Madrid. On Mbappé’s goal, Alejandro Balde played him onside, and the midfield failed to close down. They struggled throughout.”
Lamine Yamal, a key threat last season, had little influence. “He isn’t fully fit, likely due to groin pain,” Balague noted. “The Barcelona that caught Mbappé offside eight times last year is gone. They miss Raphinha’s intensity in both attack and defence.”
Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, also struggled. “He tried to attack from the left but lacked support,” Balague said. “He faced multiple defenders and lost possession too often. His assist came from one rare pressing moment. Barcelona’s system collapses without high pressing.”
