Earlier, Barcelona had chances but Lewandowski’s shot was blocked by a frail Courtois against the post. It was also a harbinger of things to come. After Rudiger made a mistake, Garvey completed a wonderful pass and scored the first goal of the game.
Updated – 10:26 AM, Mon – 16 January 23
Riyadh: Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3-1 in Saudi Arabia to win the Spanish Super Cup on Sunday, with goals from Gavi, Robert Lewandowski and Pedri helping them overcome their bitter rivals.
This seems too simple. Antonio Rudiger mishandled the ball. Robert Lewandowski received it from Pedri, who then gave it to the unidentified Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. The midfielder calmly sent the ball into the far corner to give his side a 1-0 lead. His goal was the first of three fine games to help Barca beat a sluggish Real Madrid side and give Xavi his first title as manager.
Earlier, Barcelona had chances but Lewandowski’s shot was blocked by a frail Courtois against the post. It was also a harbinger of things to come. After Rudiger made a mistake, Garvey completed a wonderful pass and scored the first goal of the game.
Garvey sprinted forward for Lewandowski, who made no mistake from five yards out.
Halfway through the second half, Barça scored their third goal, with Garvey contributing again. He sprinted down the left and found Pedri running towards the back post, who was elated before the ball was in.
But despite the Blaugrana’s delight, Madrid’s performance was poor. It wasn’t until Karim Benzema’s lucky rebound in the six-yard area in the 92nd minute that Real Madrid had their first big chance.
His effort was the only hiccup in Barca’s overwhelming display. While they now hold the domestic title of the year, the result means a lot more.
