CONTRASTING REALITY IN THE DEBUT OF LALIGA'S BIG 2
A competitive Barça vs a Madrid that was 'too much': This was the 'Clásico' in the LaLiga premiere
Published:19/08/2024 - 11:28h
Updated:19/08/2024 - 11:31h
FC Barcelona and Real Madrid have already made their debut in LaLiga EA Sports 2024/25, a start that has been uneven for both clubs. Although both had to start their respective adventures as visitors, only the culés managed to add three points, while the meringues barely managed one unit
Contrasting debuts for two of the giants in LaLiga EA Sports, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid, in this newly started season 2024/25. While the Blaugrana side fulfilled their duties by securing three points away, with an important 1-2 victory at Mestalla against Valencia CF, the Merengues could only manage a 1-1 draw at Son Moix against RCD Mallorca, a match that truly surprised many.
At this point, the Hansi Flick's team, who played on Saturday, August 17, found themselves in a match where they started trailing. In the 44th minute, former Real Madrid player Hugo Duro put his team ahead with a header that nestled near the left corner of the Barça goal. However, the Catalan side reacted almost immediately, as in the 45+6th minute, Robert Lewandowski found the back of the net with a powerful right-footed shot after receiving a cross into the area from Lamine Yamal.
Finally, Barcelona turned the score around in the 47th minute with another goal from the Polish striker, who converted a penalty committed by defender Cristhian Mosquera on Raphinha. This sealed the score in a match where a young Barcelona squad was seen, gradually showing the influence of the German coach, at least in terms of pressure and intensity in the game. However, it's important to note that the team struggled at the back at times, with lapses that almost led to conceding goals, although these are aspects that can be corrected as the squad gradually gains momentum.
Real Madrid, lots of 'spark' but little finishing
On the other hand, Real Madrid, who introduced their new attacking trio with Vinicius Jr. on the left, Kylian Mbappé in the center, and Rodrygo Goes on the right, with Jude Bellingham as the attacking midfielder, took the lead with a goal from Brazilian '11' in the 13th minute, with an excellent finish with his right foot. However, they couldn't maintain that advantage, much less extend it, as at times their attack seemed quite predictable, focusing excessively on the left side and relying heavily on the individual skills of 'Donatello' and 'Vini'. Although not always effective. Lots of direct and explosive football, but sometimes lacking in pause, game control, and clarity in the final phase.
How will Barcelona and Madrid face LaLiga EA Sports matchday two?
For the second matchday, FC Barcelona will face Athletic Club on Saturday, August 24 at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. On the other hand, Real Madrid will square off against Valladolid on Sunday, August 25 at the Santiago Bernabéu, both matches that you can follow here on FCBN to know all the details.
