Barcelona achieved a decisive 0-3 win at the Santiago Bernabeu against Real Madrid on Saturday. El Clasico was an even battle in the first half, but goals by Messi, Suarez and Vidal after the break ensured the three points travelled back to the Catalan capital.
As expected, Valverde started the game with a 4-4-2 formation with Paulinho looking for gaps between the lines and Sergi Roberto pushing forward whenever possible. Zidane’s men controlled the game in the first half but, despite their continued time on the ball, Los Blancos failed to trouble Ter Stegen too often. In contrast, Barca could have certainly scored after a superb effort from Paulinho which Navas saved with only minutes to go until the break.
Inexplicably, Real Madrid gave up possession after the half-time break and Barcelona became more dominant and, slowly but surely, creating increasing danger the hosts could not do much about. Thanks to their continued insistence, Valverde’s men found the back of the net twice, then had enough know-how and confidence to administer their advantage until the end. Barca’s third goal, which came after a confident strike by Vidal, was a fair reflection of a game in which the Camp Nou giants were rarely, truly troubled.
Match Stats:
Player Ratings:
Ter Stegen – 8
Sergi Roberto -9
Pique – 8
Vermaelen – 8
Jordi Alba -7
Busquets – 8
Iniesta – 8
Rakitic – 7
Paulinho – 8
Messi – 9
Luis Suarez – 8
Semedo – 7
Aleix Vidal – 7
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