Barcelona's unbeaten domestic record came to an end on Sunday night as Real Madrid won 2-1 at Spotify Camp Nou in a Clasico that will sting for some time. Kylian Mbappe scored twice, including a late winner in the 87th minute set up by substitute Eduardo Camavinga, to hand Jose Mourinho victory in his first Clasico back on the Madrid bench. Raphinha had equalised in the 61st minute after Pedri's clever assist, but a costly turnover from Gabriel Jesus in the closing stages allowed Madrid to break and finish the game. The defeat ends a nine-game winning run in La Liga and means Barcelona's lead at the top of the table has been cut from six points to three, with Atletico Madrid now breathing down their necks in second place on 25 points.

The result stings partly because of context. Barcelona controlled 62 percent of possession and fired 17 shots, yet were undone by Madrid's clinical transitions and Mbappe's finishing. Flick's side also went into the game short-handed, with Jules Kounde a doubt and Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, and Dani Olmo all sidelined through injury. Xavi Espart lasted only 30 minutes before being forced off with a knock, adding to the defensive disruption. The squad's depth is being tested at a critical moment in the season. Barcelona now turn their attention to a home LaLiga fixture against Deportivo Alaves on October 31, a game they will need to win to maintain pressure on those above and below them in a tightening title race.