Barça Legends wins a Classic (2-1) with tribute to Iniesta and a special moment from Xavi

FC Barcelona extended its dominance over Real Madrid in a new edition of the Legends Classic, held at the Ajinomoto Stadium in Tokyo (2-1). The Catalans, led by Albert Ferrer, secured victory thanks to goals from Javier Saviola and an own goal by Fernando Sanz, in a charity match played in front of a full house in Japanese soil, with an overwhelming majority of blaugrana fans.

The day was particularly special for Andrés Iniesta, who was honored at the end of the match following his recent professional retirement. The '8' received a Madrid jersey with his name and number, in a match where he started as a starter alongside his best partner in the blaugrana team, Xavi Hernández. The Terrassa native led the midfield for Barça, showcasing several flashes of his endless quality.

Xavi paved the way to victory for Barça with a 'crack' moment

In the 31st minute, a ball recovered by Mendieta fell to the Egarense, who took advantage of Giuly's run to set up the Frenchman with a backheel. The former French international passed the ball to Saviola, who appeared free in the center of the area to make it 1-0. Balboa equalized for Madrid in the 77th minute, and when it seemed the match would be decided in a penalty shootout, a poor clearance by Fernando Sanz in the 90+3rd minute, after a cross delivered by Iniesta.

Both the Manchego and Xavi played the entire match, on a day where Sergi Barjuan, Rafa Márquez, Rivaldo, Angoy, Déhu, and Fernando Navarro also started. In the second half, Roger García, Roberto Trashorras, Nolito, Agudo, Valiente, Guzmán, and Ferrón also came on. In the previous Legends Classic, Barça also won in penalties (2-2, 4-2 p.), in a match where Ronaldinho shone with a stunning free-kick goal.