Kylian Mbappé Shines with Hat Trick but Barcelona Edge Real Madrid in El Clásico Thriller

Kylian Mbappé scored three goals for Real Madrid against Barcelona in a dramatic 4-3 defeat that pushed Barcelona closer to the La Liga title. Despite Mbappé’s heroics, Madrid could not secure a win and are now 7 points behind Barcelona who could confirm the league title next match.

WHAT HAPPENED?

On Sunday, Real Madrid visited Barcelona at Montjuic Stadium for a crucial El Clásico in La Liga. Mbappé put Madrid ahead early, netting goals in the 5th and 14th minutes. However, Barcelona responded with two goals from Raphinha, plus strikes from Lamine Yamal and Eric Garcia, seizing a 4-2 lead by halftime. Mbappé completed his hat trick with a third goal in the 70th minute, but Madrid fell short as Barcelona held on for the win. The match was a setback for Madrid in their title chase, with Barcelona opening a seven-point gap at the top with just three matches left in the season.

MBAPPÉ’S RECORD AND SEASON SO FAR

Mbappé’s treble took him to 27 goals in La Liga, making him the league’s top scorer, two ahead of Robert Lewandowski. Across all competitions, Mbappé has netted 38 goals this campaign, cementing his place as one of the world’s elite forwards. Despite his individual brilliance, Real Madrid have now lost every meeting with Barcelona this season. Barcelona’s dominance includes winning 4-0 at the Bernabéu in October, a 5-2 Spanish Super Cup victory, and another triumph in the Copa del Rey final.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE TITLE RACE?

Barcelona’s victory puts them in a commanding position, leading La Liga by seven points over second-placed Real Madrid with just three games remaining. Real Madrid, trailing and needing a perfect finish, must now rely on an unlikely Barcelona collapse to defend their crown. Barcelona, energized by their domestic form despite recent Champions League heartbreak, will face their next opponents with the title almost in their grasp. Meanwhile, Real Madrid will aim to finish the season strong, but their hopes for another league trophy are slipping away fast.