In the storied derby, the 18-year-old is the youngest player to ever score and assist....CONTINUE READING
Gavi sets a record as Barcelona wins their first trophy since Lionel Messi left the club Barcelona The good times are slowly coming back for Barcelona as they win their first trophy since Messi left the club.
The Catalan giants won almost every important trophy while the Argentine was there, but his final days and departure were met with a trophy drought.
In Sunday’s Supercopa de Espana El Clasico final, Xavi’s team defeated Real Madrid 3-1 thanks to a man-of-the-match performance by Barcelona teenager Gavi.
Even though both teams won grueling penalty shootout victories in their midweek semi-finals, the energy on the field and in the Riyadh stands demonstrated that this was not a pre-season friendly as such Super Cup games typically are.
Before Thibaut Courtois saved Robert Lewandowski’s shot from 20 yards out, Barcelona got a foot on the ball early and almost found Ronald Araujo for a close-range finish from a set piece.
When Karim Benzema peeled off his man on the 19th minute and planted a trademark header that went just wide, Madrid appeared to be getting back into the game. However, in reality, that would be their only attempt of the first half.
The Catalans quickly regained their momentum, taking the lead by stealing possession high up the field for Lewandowski to pass to Gavi, who scored with a fine finish that beat Courtois.
When Gavi was given half of the Arabian desert to scamper down the left wing and return the favor for Lewandowski, Real failed to liven up and suffered a devastating blow on the verge of the break. The Pole was unable to miss from five yards out for his 20th goal of the season.
Rodrygo replaced Carlo Ancelotti in an attacking change at halftime to maintain Barcelona’s unbeaten run in finals for more than 12 years. Courtois saved Dembele’s one-on-one shot with his legs, however.
After more excellent work from Lewandowski, Gavi played in Pedri for a far-post tap-in on 69 minutes, when substitute Dani Ceballos was caught in possession, making it 3-0.
Gavi, who was 18 years old at the time, became the youngest player to ever score and assist in the storied derby. It was the first Clasico goal for all three players.
After Madrid produced a performance that was extremely disappointing, Karim Benzema scored a late consolation goal.
Barcelona’s performance in such a significant final should serve as a warning sign to their biggest rivals and all of Europe. They are ahead in the race for the LaLiga title and have now tasted silverware for the first time since Lionel Messi left the Camp Nou.
