Real Madrid's 11-match unbeaten streak came to a crashing halt in the most controversial circumstances as Barcelona snatched a dramatic 3-2 victory in a fiery El Clásico clash that will be remembered for one pivotal refereeing decision.
Turning Point Sparks Bernabéu Outrage
The match turned on its head when French midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni received his second yellow card in the 28th minute for a challenge on Ilkay Gündogan, reducing Los Blancos to ten men and leaving manager Carlo Ancelotti visibly incensed on the touchline.
"It's difficult to understand," fumed Ancelotti post-match. "The first booking was ridiculous, and the second wasn't even a foul. At that moment, the game changed completely."
Barcelona Capitalise on Numerical Advantage
Despite taking an early lead through Andreas Christensen, Barcelona found themselves pegged back by a brilliant Lucas Vázquez equaliser. However, the red card proved decisive as the Catalan giants exploited their extra man to devastating effect.
Substitute Fermín López restored Barcelona's lead before the ever-dangerous Jude Bellingham thought he'd salvaged a point with a late strike, only for substitute Sergi Roberto to break Madrid hearts with an 86th-minute winner.
Title Race Implications
The victory breathes new life into Barcelona's La Liga title defence, cutting the gap to leaders Real Madrid to just seven points with six matches remaining. While Madrid remain favourites, this result ensures the title race remains very much alive.
Barcelona manager Xavi acknowledged the significance of the red card: "It changed the dynamic, but I'm proud of how we managed the situation. We showed character and quality when it mattered most."
Fallout and Looking Ahead
The controversial decision is likely to dominate Spanish football headlines for days, with Real Madrid expected to appeal Tchouaméni's suspension ahead of their crucial Champions League semi-final against Bayern Munich.
This classic El Clásico encounter had everything - early goals, controversial decisions, dramatic comebacks, and late winners - proving once again why this fixture remains the crown jewel of Spanish football.
