Mourinho’s plan comes together as Real Madrid relaunch with clásico statement | Sid Lowe

Sid Lowe reports that José Mourinho guided Real Madrid to a dramatic 2-1 Clásico victory against Barcelona at Camp Nou. Kylian Mbappé scored twice, including a late winner, to cut Barcelona's lead at the top of the table to three points. The victory marked Madrid's fifth consecutive win in all competitions and ended Barcelona's nine-match winning run.

Madrid adjusted their tactics effectively despite the absence of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois due to the flu, with deputy Andriy Lunin performing strongly. Lowe highlights that tactical shifts, such as moving Federico Valverde to right-back and starting Arda Güler, Bernardo Silva, and Yan Diomandé, provided Madrid with crucial midfield control and defensive solidity.