Real Madrid went into El Clasico with the weight of the world on their shoulders.

Their disastrous spell last season where they lost everything in ten days was being discussed once more after the defeat to Manchester City in the Champions League.

Next up were Barcelona, who Los Blancos hadn't beaten at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu for five seasons and who were threatening to go five points clear at the top of the table.

While another loss could've been apocalyptic, the eventual 2-0 win breathed new life into Real Madrid's campaign.

It's not just in LaLiga Santander where the impacts of that victory will be felt, with Zinedine Zidane's side heading into the second leg of their tie with Manchester City in buoyant mood.

Good vibes and Vinicius

The win over Barcelona has seen morale return to the level that it was a month ago at Valdebebas.

The result has also made Real Madrid believe they're unbeatable at home, while the goals from Vinicius Junior and Mariano Diaz have added an extra dynamic to the team's goal threat after a few weeks of disappointment in that department.

The pair found the net against the impeccable Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who proved his qualities yet again with a stunning stop to deny Isco.

It was about time Vinicius scored a goal in an important fixture, too. None of his previous eight goals in the famous white shirt can compare with the ninth.

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A giant between the sticks

Thibaut Courtois offered up another lesson in how a goalkeeper should perform at the highest level.

The Belgian's saves at 0-0 were crucial, like they were against Manchester City, but this time Real Madrid were able to defend the lead once they'd taken it.

It's now 12 clean sheets this season for the former Chelsea goalkeeper, who leads David Soria and Jan Oblak (both on 11) in that department in LaLiga Santander.

Now, when he returns to England, Courtois will be needed more than ever to help Real Madrid mount their comeback against City at the Etihad Stadium.