Barcelona Edge Real Madrid 4-3 in El Clásico Thriller to Close in on La Liga Title

FC Barcelona secured a pivotal 4-3 victory over arch-rivals Real Madrid in a thrilling El Clásico encounter on Sunday, 11 May 2025, at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. This win propels Barcelona seven points clear at the summit of La Liga, with only three matches remaining in the season.

The match commenced with high intensity as Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappé netted two early goals in the 4th and 13th minutes. Barcelona responded with determination: Eric García initiated the comeback with a goal in the 18th minute, followed by Lamine Yamal's equaliser in the 31st minute. Raphinha then delivered a remarkable performance, scoring twice in quick succession in the 33rd and 44th minutes, granting Barcelona a 4-2 lead by halftime. Mbappé completed his hat-trick in the 69th minute, narrowing the deficit, but Barcelona maintained their lead to clinch the victory.

With this triumph, Barcelona now sits at the top of the La Liga table with 82 points, while Real Madrid trails with 75 points. Given the remaining fixtures, Barcelona requires just three more points to mathematically secure the league title. A victory in their upcoming match against Espanyol could potentially seal their 28th La Liga championship.

This season has been remarkable for Barcelona, marked by significant achievements. They clinched their record 32nd Copa del Rey title, further solidifying their dominance in Spanish football. Earlier in the season, they secured their 15th Spanish Super Cup title, showcasing their consistency across competitions. Despite a narrow exit from the UEFA Champions League semifinals against Inter Milan, Barcelona's domestic performance has been exemplary.

Under the guidance of manager Hansi Flick, Barcelona is on the cusp of completing a domestic treble—a feat that would underscore their resurgence and dominance in Spanish football. The upcoming Catalan derby against Espanyol presents an opportunity to clinch the La Liga title and cap off a stellar season.