This was a victory that sent Madrid five points clear of their opponents, a healthy gap even at this early stage of a LaLiga season that has 29 games to go.
It was Madrid's fourth consecutive 'Clasico' victory, the first time that has happened in 56 years, and it left Barca sitting eighth at full-time, ninth by the end of the weekend.
There were things to admire in Barcelona's performance. They had more of the ball, more shots and might have managed a draw if Sergino Dest had shown a cooler head in front of goal.
They could certainly not be faulted for effort or ambition, with a team that had four players aged 20 or younger, including Gavi, who at 17 was Barca's youngest starter in this fixture for 80 years.
Barca fought hard and, within their own limitations, they played well.