By Koyejo Onatade
Real Madrid secured a 2–1 victory over Barcelona in a fiery El Clásico clash at the Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday, following a pre-match controversy sparked by allegations from Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal accusing Madrid of cheating to influence referees.
Goals from Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham were enough to hand Los Blancos a crucial win, extending their lead at the top of La Liga to five points and ending a four-game losing streak against their arch-rivals.
Tensions had been brewing even before kick-off, after Yamal reportedly accused Real Madrid of using dishonest means to sway match officials.
The comments provoked a strong reaction from Madrid’s camp, with captain Dani Carvajal allegedly vowing a confrontation.
The match itself, however, lived up to its billing as one of football’s fiercest rivalries, producing moments of intensity both on and off the ball.
Barcelona midfielder Pedri was sent off late in the game, deepening his team’s frustration as Madrid held firm to claim the win.
Following the final whistle, the heated atmosphere spilled over into the tunnel, with reports of an altercation still involving Yamal.
The situation underscored the high emotions surrounding one of the most competitive fixtures in world football.
The result marks an important milestone for Real Madrid, who now sit firmly in control of the La Liga race, while Barcelona are left to reassess their form and composure amid growing scrutiny following Yamal’s controversial remarks.
