Jude Bellingham scored two goals for Los Blancos on Saturday, helping Real Madrid come back from down to defeat rival Barcelona in the major El Clasico.
In Saturday’s La Liga match, German professional football star Ilkay Gundogan gave his home team Barca the lead with his first goal since leaving Manchester City on a free transfer this summer.
Even though Barcelona was playing at its peak, Los Blancos’ midfielder stole the show with his stunning late goals in the 68 and 92 minutes to give the visiting team the victory.
According to Naija News, Madrid got off to a slow start and struggled to generate goal-scoring opportunities.
But Bellingham—who had already made an impression earlier—rose to the challenge and hit a strong long-range shot to tie the game. The English star wasn’t satisfied with just that, either, as he added a thrilling late winner during added time. Our knowledgeable writers John Muller, Dermot Corrigan, and Pol Ballus offer a thorough analysis of the game.
Xavi, the manager of Barcelona, regretted that his team missed opportunities to win the El Clasico and thought Madrid’s triumph was unfair.
“To put it simply, we played 60 excellent minutes and scored one goal; Madrid played 20 excellent minutes and scored two. Effectiveness is key; we dominated and had opportunities to make it 2-0, which would have altered the course of the match. Madrid’s triumph today seems unfair to me.
“We didn’t focus as much on high pressure. We had a fantastic squad with strengths in front of us, but it was challenging for us. What we had planned went really well, so it’s unfortunate,” Xavi said to DAZN following the game.
In reference to specific players, he continued, saying, “Gavi was incredible; he is the team’s spirit.” He has performed admirably as a pivot, winning duels, not losing balls, and providing the squad with a core intensity.
“Bellingham was the difference maker today; he scored the second goal on a lateral cross from behind, and it was an action we had discussed; the equalizer was a smash and grab, but today it was effectiveness that won out.”