Madrid: Madrid thrashed Barcelona 2-0 in Sunday's 'El Clasico' as they toppled their rivals at the La Liga summit after a week in which their pride had taken a beating at home and in Europe.
Teen sensation Vinicius Jr netted the first goal for Real Madrid in the 71st minute with a strike that deflected off Gerard Pique, baffling goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen who had a busy day under the bar. Substitute Mariano scored the second of the night in the added time to impose a defeat on Barcelona.
Real Madrid's win meant they lead the league standings with 56 points from 26 games, with their nearest rivals Barcelona slipping to the second spot with 55 points.
Real had suffered defeats in the hands of Levante in La Liga and Manchester City in their Champions League last 16 first-leg tie in the last week. On Sunday they started cautiously, but in the second half, they overwhelmed Barcelona, attacking them from either flank on numerous occasions.
In the first half, Barcelona did get two chances but couldn't convert them into goals. In the second half, Real Madrid were unstoppable. They were outstanding both in attacking and defending. Once Lionel Messi raced towards the goal only to find himself being stopped by Marcelo.
Marcelo's tackle received a loud cheer from Santiago Bernabéu audience as their favourite club won their first league match against Barcelona at home since 2014.
The much-awaited victory was sealed by 26-year-old rather unknown striker Mariano, who had only just come off the bench to make his first league appearance of the season.
Real Madrid were under tremendous pressure after their 2-1 home defeat by Manchester City which has seriously jolted their hopes of remaining in the Champions League and put Zidane back under pressure for the second time this season.
