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Real Madrid Player Ratings: Mbappé's Brace Secures Thrilling Win Over Barcelona

At the Spotify Camp Nou, Real Madrid edged out Barcelona 2-1 in a gripping Clásico, driven by a superb two-goal performance from Kylian Mbappé. His decisive strikes overshadowed a goal by Raphinha, as the match unfolded with intense tactical play.

Using a structured 4-3-3 formation, José Mourinho's team gave up possession early, allowing Barcelona to hold 62% of the ball. Despite this, Real Madrid remained the more dangerous side, creating chances that added up to an Expected Goals (xG) of 1.95, compared to Barcelona’s 1.19, thanks to their rapid transitions and vertical attacks.

Mbappé’s first goal arrived just before halftime, giving Madrid a vital lead. Barcelona equalized through Raphinha in the 61st minute, but the visitors’ defense held firm until Mbappé sealed the win with a late goal in the 87th minute, marking his 100th for the club in one of Spanish football’s most significant matches.

Goalkeeper & Defence

  • Andriy Lunin - 7/10: Stepped in for the sidelined Courtois, making 5 saves from 6 shots on target. Though beaten once by Raphinha, his positioning was strong, including a notable second-half save from Gerard Martín.
  • Federico Valverde - 6/10: Played right-back in a hybrid defensive system, focusing on containing Anthony Gordon for 62 minutes before being substituted. He helped maintain Madrid’s shape against wide threats.
  • Dean Huijsen - 8/10: A standout in central defense with 19 interventions including blocks and clearances. His game reading and aerial presence limited Barcelona’s chances despite not winning tackles.
  • Ibrahima Konaté - 7/10: Provided physicality against Barcelona’s front three, contributing to the team’s total of 50 won duels and supporting counter-attacks.
  • Marc Cucurella - 6/10: Tasked with shadowing Lamine Yamal, he struggled at times but stayed disciplined and compact, helping to shut down creative outlets.

Midfield

  • Aurélien Tchouaméni - 8/10: Acted as the midfield anchor with exceptional passing accuracy (96%). His defensive screening allowed forwards to stay advanced.
  • Bernardo Silva - 7/10: Connected defense and attack well, navigating through Barcelona’s press. Substituted by Camavinga in the 80th minute.
  • Arda Güler - 7/10: Played on the right wing, posing a consistent threat with five shots and creative play but lacked finishing precision.
  • Jude Bellingham - 6/10: In the number ten role, focused more on work rate and disrupting opponents than scoring. Missed a key chance late in the match.
  • Yan Diomande - 6/10: Held defensive shape on the left wing and had a blocked effort during a counter-attack before being replaced late.

Attack

  • Kylian Mbappé - 10/10: Delivered a flawless display with both goals. His first showed sharp instincts; the second was a brilliant example of quick transition. Scoring his 100th goal for Madrid in this high-profile clash cements his legendary status.

Substitutes & Manager

  • Denzel Dumfries - 6/10: Replaced Valverde to add energy on the right flank and helped maintain defensive discipline as Madrid protected the lead.
  • Eduardo Camavinga - 6/10: Came on late to bolster midfield, quickly setting up Mbappé’s winning goal with skillful play.
  • Trent Alexander-Arnold - N/A: Entered in stoppage time with too little time to influence the match.
  • Carlos Espí - N/A: A late substitution aimed at running down the clock and securing victory.
  • José Mourinho - 9/10: His tactics paid off by allowing possession but focusing on swift vertical attacks. Starting Huijsen proved wise, and his substitutions regained control after the equalizer.

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