Barcelona lifted the Spanish Super Cup on Sunday evening with a 3-1 victory over rivals Real
Madrid. The match was a highly-anticipated encounter, with both teams looking to start the second half of the season off on a high note.
The Blaugrana got off to a flying start, with goals from Gavi and Robert Lewandowski in the first half
putting them in control of the match. Real Madrid could not break down a resolute Barcelona
defense. Pedri added a third goal for the Catalan giants, putting the game beyond doubt. Real
Madrid did manage to score a consolation goal in the 90th minute through Karim Benzema, but it was too little too late.
Barcelona’s midfielders were instrumental in the win, with Gavi being named the man of the match
for his 2 assists and a goal. The Barcelona coach Xavi was thrilled with his team’s performance.
Xavi said: “I am very satisfied because I really like how we played. It is clear that winning
conditions us, because otherwise, we wouldn’t have confidence. Today we didn’t lose balls and the
midfielders have understood their assignments very well. We have played better, but I am happy
for the players because they have received a lot of unfair criticism and many players have freed
themselves. It is a title against Madrid and we have to be very proud… Leo’s departure was difficult
to digest. But we are creating a team”.
The victory is a huge boost for Barcelona, who have had a difficult few seasons. With the team
now starting to gel under Xavi, they will be looking to build on this result and challenge for more
trophies this season.
By Kanak Chauhan
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