Yamal Leads the Charge in a Match for the Ages
Barcelona’s domestic treble bid took a massive step forward on Sunday night as they overcame an early Kylian Mbappé blitz to claim a wild 4-3 win over Real Madrid at the Olympic Stadium. The victory puts them seven points clear with three games to play and just two points needed to secure the LaLiga crown.
It was 17-year-old Lamine Yamal who stole the show. With Barcelona trailing early after two rapid-fire goals from Mbappé, Yamal struck a stunning equalizer from the edge of the area, sparking a first-half surge that saw Barça take a 4-2 lead by the break.
Flick Praises Yamal’s Composure
“He’s not a kid,” manager Hansi Flick said post-match. “He’s clever, confident, and has belief in what he can do. That goal was of very high quality.”
Yamal’s influence extended beyond his goal. He created multiple chances, particularly for Raphinha, who scored twice but also missed several clear opportunities.
Title Within Touching Distance
With three matches remaining, Barcelona need just two points to secure the LaLiga title. They can clinch it as early as Wednesday if Madrid drop points against Mallorca. Otherwise, a draw or win against Espanyol on Thursday will seal it.
“It’s football, you never know,” Flick said. “But we’re in a good position. We want to finish it as soon as possible.”
The win also marked a fourth Clásico victory of the season for Barcelona and completed a near-perfect domestic campaign, with the Spanish Supercopa and Copa del Rey already secured.
Mbappé’s Hat Trick Not Enough
Mbappé completed his hat trick in the second half, narrowing the deficit to one and setting up a tense final stretch. Real Madrid pushed forward, but Barça held on to claim their 27th league win of the season.
Flick’s side have now scored 95 goals in 35 LaLiga games, making them one of the most entertaining teams in Europe this season.
“You [the media] can answer if we’re the most fun,” Flick said. “For me, sometimes it’s a little too stressful. But I’m proud of what we’re building.”
Defensive Issues Persist
Despite the fireworks, Barcelona’s defensive vulnerabilities were once again exposed. Pau Cubarsí’s early error handed Madrid a penalty, and the backline struggled to contain Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior throughout the night.
“Against a team like Madrid, with their attackers, you get punished,” Flick admitted. “We must learn to be more stable, more disciplined defensively.”
Late Drama and a Statement Victory
The match was not without controversy. Barcelona were denied a penalty for a handball by Aurélien Tchouaméni, and a late fifth goal was ruled out after a Fermín López handball in the buildup. Still, the atmosphere remained electric as fans sensed a title within grasp.
“The mentality of my team is unbelievable,” Flick said. “They never stop. But this journey isn’t over. There’s more to improve — and we’ll get there.”
Barcelona are on the brink. One more step, and the title is theirs.
