Jude Bellingham continued his return to peak form with another decisive performance as Real Madrid edged Barcelona 2–1 in Sunday’s El Clasico to move five points clear at the top of La Liga.
The England midfielder set up Kylian Mbappe’s opener before scoring the winner, sealing a superb week in which he also netted the decisive goal in the midweek Champions League victory over Juventus.
Madrid coach Xabi Alonso praised Bellingham’s influence, noting his resurgence after recovering from shoulder surgery.
“We saw it against Juventus and today — he’s had three very good games,” Alonso said. “Jude is a player who thrives on connection and emotion, and that’s showing in his performances.”
Barcelona briefly drew level through Fermin Lopez, but Madrid dominated large spells and had three goals disallowed for offside. Vinicius Junior also shone, though his frustration at being substituted drew attention.
Alonso brushed off any controversy, insisting the focus was on the collective effort.
“The team was very motivated,” he said. “They needed this feeling of winning a big game again and they deserved it.”
The victory, Alonso’s first in the Clasico as Madrid boss, strengthens Los Blancos’ grip on the title race and reinforces Bellingham’s growing stature as the heartbeat of their midfield.
