Real Madrid Strike Decisive Blow with Last-Minute Clasico Victory
Barca's Title Hopes Falter as Kessie's Late Goal Seals Defeat
April 21, 2024 - Real Madrid have delivered a crushing blow to Barcelona's La Liga title hopes with a dramatic 2-1 victory in the final El Clasico of the season. In a pulsating encounter at the Santiago Bernabeu, Franck Kessie's last-gasp goal condemned Barca to a demoralizing loss.
Close Contest
The match was evenly poised throughout, with both teams creating chances. However, Barcelona struck first in the 77th minute when Gundogan's free-kick was parried into Fermin's path, but his shot was blocked.
Madrid's Breakthrough
Real Madrid took the lead against the run of play in the 89th minute. A mazy run from Vinicius Jr. created space for Karim Benzema, who slotted the ball home from close range. The goal sent the Bernabeu crowd into raptures.
Kessie's Heartbreak
Barca refused to give up and threw bodies forward in search of an equalizer. Their persistence paid off in the fifth minute of stoppage time when Kessie headed home a cross from Ousmane Dembele. The strike sent the Camp Nou into pandemonium, but it was too little too late.
La Liga Implications
Real Madrid's victory moves them 11 points clear of Barcelona at the top of the La Liga table. With just four matches remaining, Carlo Ancelotti's team is now in a commanding position to win their 36th league title.
For Barcelona, the defeat is a major setback in their title challenge. With the race for the championship now all but over, Xavi's team will need to focus on securing a top-four finish and a place in next season's Champions League.
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