In a thrilling El Clásico encounter on Sunday, May 11, 2025, 17-year-old Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal delivered a memorable performance, scoring a crucial equalizer in their 4-3 victory over arch-rivals Real Madrid. However, it wasn’t just his stunning goal that grabbed headlines; his audacious celebration, which appeared to mock both Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappé, set social media ablaze.
The match at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys saw Real Madrid take an early 2-0 lead, courtesy of a Kylian Mbappé double. However, Barcelona fought back fiercely. Eric Garcia pulled one back, and then in the 32nd minute, Yamal produced a moment of brilliance. Receiving the ball just inside the penalty area on the right side, he unleashed a sublime left-footed curling shot that nestled perfectly into the far corner of the net, leaving Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois with no chance.
Following his equalizer, Yamal’s celebration caught the attention of everyone. The young winger first performed Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic “calma” celebration, holding his hands out, seemingly telling the Real Madrid fans to calm down. This gesture was particularly significant as Ronaldo famously used this celebration at Camp Nou in 2012 after scoring a decisive goal against Barcelona.
But Yamal wasn’t done there. He then transitioned into Kylian Mbappé’s signature arms-folded pose, directing a playful jab at the French superstar who had earlier put his team in a commanding position with two goals. This dual mockery of two of football’s biggest वर्तमान stars added an extra layer of spice to an already intense El Clásico.
Yamal’s Breakout Season
This goal against Real Madrid was another feather in the cap of what has been a sensational season for Lamine Yamal. In just four appearances against Real Madrid this season, he has now scored three goals and provided two assists. His overall contribution for the 2024-25 season stands at an impressive 40 goal involvements, with 16 goals and 24 assists across all competitions. In La Liga alone, he boasts 7 goals and 12 assists in 32 appearances.
Barcelona on the Verge of La Liga Title
Barcelona’s victory in this El Clásico has put them in a commanding position to secure their 28th La Liga title. They now hold an eight-point lead over Real Madrid with only three games remaining. A win in their upcoming Catalan derby against Espanyol on May 15th would confirm their status as champions.
The sensational rise of Lamine Yamal has already led to comparisons with some of the greatest players in football history. Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand, who played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, believes that Yamal is already ahead of both Ronaldo and Lionel Messi at the same age. He highlighted Yamal’s dribbling ability and the versatility of his left foot, stating that his statistics of 100 appearances at 17 are “ridiculous” and that he is “dominating games” and “defining games.”
Lamine Yamal’s goal and subsequent celebration will undoubtedly be remembered as a defining moment in this El Clásico, further solidifying his status as one of the most exciting young talents in world football and bringing Barcelona closer to reclaiming the La Liga crown.
