Real Madrid produced a dominant display at the Bernabéu, defeating Barcelona 2-1 to extend their lead at the top of La Liga to five points. Xabi Alonso’s team combined discipline, intensity, and precision in his first Clasico as manager. Jude Bellingham ended his goal drought with his first league goal and assist of the season after recovering from shoulder surgery. Kylian Mbappé continued his lethal form, leading the attack with authority. Yet the victory was overshadowed by Vinicius Jr’s fiery reaction to being substituted.
The Brazilian winger reacted angrily after being replaced in the 72nd minute. He ignored Alonso, stormed down the tunnel, and returned to the bench still frustrated. Spanish football analyst Guillem Balague highlighted Madrid’s tactical superiority and the growing tension between Vinicius and the club.
Alonso’s tactics provide structure and control
Alonso’s first Clasico as manager delivered a statement of intent. Seven of Real Madrid’s last eight coaches had lost their debut league clash with Barcelona. After Carlo Ancelotti’s flexible approach faltered last season, Alonso’s structured system brought immediate results.
“He got everything right. Real Madrid were excellent, and Barcelona struggled to respond,” Balague said. “They pressed high, regrouped quickly when beaten, and even Vinicius contributed defensively. Their lines stayed compact, five to ten metres apart, leaving Barcelona with no options.”
The system also enhanced Jude Bellingham’s performance. Last season, he carried too much responsibility in midfield. Now, his role is structured but allows flexibility. He started on the right but frequently moved inside to connect with Mbappé or attack the box.
“With Eduardo Camavinga in midfield, Madrid gained balance and energy,” Balague explained. “Bellingham pressed intelligently, created chances, and attacked the box. He made life very difficult for Barcelona’s midfield.”
Vinicius outburst exposes growing tension
Vinicius remains a fan favourite, with chants echoing across the Bernabéu. Yet behind the scenes, his relationship with the club appears strained. Reports suggest Madrid could sell him if a major offer arrives, and contract talks have stalled, leaving one year remaining on his deal.
His angry reaction to being substituted highlighted that strain. After full-time, he even tried to confront Lamine Yamal before being restrained. “He deserves criticism for disrespecting Rodrygo, who replaced him,” Balague said. “But Vinicius has always felt under pressure and isolated. He believes he is close to being the best, yet the club now revolves around Mbappé.”
Balague added that Vinicius senses a lack of support from the club. “Stories suggest Madrid wouldn’t reject €250 million for him. He feels that. When Alonso substituted him—fairly, since he stopped defending—he thought, ‘why always me?’ The trust between him and the club looks fragile.”
Barcelona falter 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 and energy.
“They look slower and less aggressive,” Balague said. “Their pressing has dropped, leaving space for Madrid to exploit. On Mbappé’s goal, Alejandro Balde played him onside, and the midfield failed to respond. They struggled throughout the game.”
Lamine Yamal, dangerous last season, failed to make an impact. “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 energy and defensive intensity.”
Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, also struggled. “He tried to attack from the left but was isolated,” Balague said. “He faced multiple defenders and lost possession often. His assist came from one rare pressing moment. Barcelona’s system collapses without high pressing.”
