Barcelona edged closer to the La Liga crown with a thrilling comeback victory over Real Madrid in Sunday’s El Clásico, but manager Hansi Flick’s post-match reaction was one of tempered celebration rather than premature triumph.

In front of a roaring Montjuïc crowd, Barça rallied from an early 2–0 deficit to win 4–3 in what was arguably the most chaotic Clásico in recent memory. Yet Flick struck a humble tone afterward.

"Do we feel like champions? No," Flick told reporters. "We are in a good position, but we’re still missing three points. Every opponent will want to beat us now."

A Match That Had It All

Real Madrid’s superstar Kylian Mbappé set the tone early, scoring twice in the first 15 minutes and later completing a stunning hat-trick. His performance, though not enough for the win, once again affirmed his elite status and ignited discussions on his growing impact in La Liga.

Barcelona responded with vigor, showcasing their own star power. Raphinha’s brace brought them level before halftime, and 17-year-old Lamine Yamal’s performance was again decisive. The youngster scored a curling equalizer and provided constant threat down the wing.

Flick had high praise for the teenage prodigy, calling him “clever,” “confident,” and “crucial,” while emphasizing his consistency despite the pressure of big matches.

Defensive Fragility and VAR Tension

The match also exposed Barcelona’s defensive vulnerabilities, something Flick acknowledged candidly:

“We’ve conceded too many. We must defend better. These kinds of games are not always fun when you’re letting in three goals.”
Adding to the intensity were multiple VAR controversies, including a disallowed goal for Madrid and a penalty claim waved off, fueling heated post-match debates across media platforms.

What’s Next for Ancelotti and Barça?

With the win, Barcelona sits seven points clear atop the table with three games remaining, tightening their grip on the La Liga title race. A win in their next match could seal the title, but Flick’s comments suggest he’s not interested in counting trophies before they’re won.

Meanwhile, questions around Carlo Ancelotti’s future at Real Madrid are intensifying. The Clásico defeat, on top of a trophyless season, leaves his position under scrutiny. Madrid fans and pundits are asking whether the club will stick with the Italian tactician moving forward.

El Clásico’s Global Impact

As always, El Clásico’s global impact was undeniable. The match trended worldwide, with fans, journalists, and players weighing in on every twist—from Mbappé’s brilliance to Flick’s managerial discipline. It served as a reminder that this rivalry remains football’s biggest stage, where every touch, goal, and statement reverberates far beyond Spain.

 
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