Barcelona stage comeback to win El Clasico, close in on title

Barcelona moved closer to the La Liga title after staging a sensational comeback to beat Real Madrid 4-3 in a thrilling El Clasico, despite a hat-trick from Kylian Mbappe.

Real Madrid took a 2-0 lead within the first 14 minutes, with Mbappe scoring twice — first from the penalty spot after being brought down by goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, and then finishing off a Vinicius Junior through ball.

But Barcelona responded in stunning fashion, scoring four times before halftime. Eric Garcia headed in from a corner to pull one back in the 19th minute, before 17-year-old Lamine Yamal curled in a brilliant equalizer.

Raphinha then struck twice — first capitalizing on a defensive mix-up involving Mbappe and Lucas Vazquez to fire home, and later finishing a Ferran Torres cut-back after stealing possession from Vazquez.

In the second half, Mbappe completed his hat-trick from close range with 20 minutes to go, taking his season tally to 39 goals — the most by a Real Madrid player in their debut campaign.

Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez had a goal ruled out for handball in the closing stages, while Raphinha missed a clear chance that could have sealed the win more comfortably.

Despite late pressure from Madrid, Barcelona held on for a crucial victory, keeping their title hopes alive in one of the most dramatic Clásicos in recent memory.