Ernesto Valverde’ first ever El Classico in charge in the La Liga ended in a comfortable victory for his side at the Bernabeu this weekend. The visitors were under pressure for most of the first half but Madrid failed to make the most of their chances, going into the break at 0-0. A good passage of play led to the first goal of the game after Sergi Roberto set Luis Suarez on goal for a simple finish.
Just 10 minutes later, a bizarre 20 seconds saw Dani Carvajal save a shot with his arm, which led to him being sent off. There was no way back for the hosts as Lionel Messi converted from the spot without much ado. Aleix Vidal added a third in stoppage time, as Barcelona opened up a 14 point gap over rivals Real Madrid with this victory. Here are the player ratings for the Catalans in this tie:
Barcelona Players Rated And Slated
Marc Andre Ter Stegen (8):
Made a superb save to deny Ronaldo in the first half and also kept out of a couple of shots late in the game, to hold on to his clean sheet.
Sergi Roberto (7):
A sensational ball to give Suarez a go on goal to open the scoring and also solid at the back, keeping Marcelo and Ronaldo at bay for most game.
Gerard Pique (8):
Kept a close eye on both Real attackers and hardly gave them any space. Made a stupendous block to deny Benzema at 0-0.
Thomas Vermaelen (6):
Looked nervous playing in his first ever El Classico but slowly grew in confidence and ended the game, dominating the Real attack.
Jordi Alba (7):
Stuck to his task well at the back, giving no space to work with for the hosts and was a constant outlet in attack, late in the game.
Sergio Busquets (8):
Was superb with his movement, interceptions and passing, and played a role in Barcelona’s opener, putting in an impressive display in the midfield.
Ivan Rakitic (7):
His charging run helped Barcelona open up Real Madrid’s defence for the opener and was also smart with his passing all afternoon, constantly troubling the hosts.
Paulinho (8):
Came close to scoring on more than one occasion and did well to regulate the midfield, keeping the ball rolling with confidence, in his first El Classico.
Andres Iniesta (7):
Was not his usual self till Real were down to 10-men but after the red, ran the game in the final third, helping his side run away with all three points.
Lionel Messi (8):
Scored his 25th El Classico goal from six yards out, and created half chances almost every time he was on the ball, in yet another match-winning display from the Argentine.
Luis Suarez (7):
Growing in confidence by the game, Suarez scored a simple opener to set Barcelona off but was not at his usual best, in and around the box.
