Iker Casillas has praised José Mourinho's tactical approach after Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1 at Camp Nou on Sunday, 25 October 2026, thanks to a late winner from Kylian Mbappé.

The former Madrid captain's reaction was notable because he had publicly opposed Mourinho's return to the club just months earlier. After their victory, however, Casillas gave the Portuguese coach credit for his team's performance.

The result moved Madrid to within three points of La Liga leaders Barca, who had won their opening nine league matches. Mbappé scored twice, while Raphinha briefly brought the hosts level in the second half.

What Casillas Wrote About Mourinho after El Clásico

Casillas shared his reaction on X shortly after the final whistle, praising both Madrid's performance and Mourinho's tactics.

“Hay Liga! Muy bien el Real Madrid. Planteamiento muy bueno de Mourinho.”

The message translates roughly as: “The title race is alive! Very good Real Madrid. Mourinho's tactical approach was excellent.”

Madrid took the lead in the 41st minute when Gerard Martín's attempted clearance struck Mbappé and rebounded into the net. Barcelona equalised through Raphinha in the 61st minute, but Mbappé scored again in the 87th minute to seal the win after a move involving Jude Bellingham, Arda Güler and Eduardo Camavinga.

Mourinho also praised his players after the match, saying they had been “very organized, very focused” and brave enough to play out from the back against Barcelona's pressing game. He made the comments in the club's official post-match press conference.

Madrid's victory cut Barcelona's lead at the top of LaLiga to three points, keeping the title race open.

Why Casillas's praise stands out given their history

Casillas and Mourinho worked together at Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, but their relationship deteriorated during the Portuguese coach's time at the club. Mourinho eventually favoured Diego López in goal, leaving Casillas out of the starting side.

The former goalkeeper left Madrid in 2015, but their strained relationship remained a talking point long after their time together at the Bernabéu.

In May 2026, when Mourinho emerged as a possible candidate to return to Madrid, Casillas made his position clear on X. He said he had no personal problem with Mourinho but did not want him back as coach.

He argued that other managers would be better suited to the club.

Real Madrid appointed Mourinho on 11 June, handing him a contract running until June 2029, according to the club's official announcement.

Casillas's latest post does not mean the pair have reconciled, but it shows he was willing to recognise Mourinho's work despite opposing his return just months earlier.