Barcelona's nine-game winning streak ended with a 2-1 loss to Real Madrid in El Clasico, as Kylian Mbappe scored both goals for Jose Mourinho's side. Despite their strong start under Hansi Flick, Barca struggled to contain Madrid's midfield, with Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham breaking through repeatedly. Mbappe was caught offside seven times by Barcelona's high line — the most in any major European league in six years — but still found the winner. Mourinho credited midfielders for exploiting Barca's defensive gaps. The result serves as a warning ahead of their Champions League ambitions, having been eliminated by Inter and Atletico in recent seasons.
In other La Liga action, Julian Alvarez scored the winning goal for Atletico Madrid against Deportivo A Coruna, apologizing to fans for previous comments about a 'dream' transfer. Diego Simeone praised his contrition, and Atletico now sit just two points behind Barcelona. Valencia suffered another derby loss to Villarreal after Harvey Elliott was sent off and Georges Mikautadze scored a late winner.
Bayern Munich faced challenges off the field with Vincent Kompany hospitalized and Joshua Kimmich on compassionate leave, but still secured a win against Freiburg. The stage is set for Der Klassiker as pressure mounts on both sides.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing