REAL MADRID 3 - 1 BARCELONA
Neymar (4')
Cristiano Ronaldo (P) (35')
Pepe (50')
Karim Benzema (61')
The epic battle ended as Real Madrid emerged winners through goals from Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe and Karim Benzema, cancelling out an early goal by Neymar.
Barcelona looked more confident in the starting minutes, thanks to an early goal by Neymar which was assisted by the debutante Luis Suarez. Real Madrid reacted well and took 5 shots on target within 15 minutes from the opener but they cannot produce anything other two crossbar hits by Benzema.
As the game progressed Barcelona struggled in the middle and failed to create chances as Isco, Toni Kroos and Luka Modric convincingly commanded the midfield.
Argentinian forward Lionel Messi received the best chance to make it 2-0 but an extraordinary save by Iker Casillas denied the Catalans.
Real Madrid were rightly given a penalty for the handball played by defender Gerrard Pique. Cristiano Ronaldo dispatched the penalty nonchalantly past Claudio Bravo who conceded for the first time this season.
If Real Madrid are allowed to score one, it will surely provoke them for more. It is the case throughout their history and they have not forgotten that. The equalizer boosted their morale and Carlo Ancelotti's men went on to look for another goal before the break.
But the first half ended as 1-1 as both teams shared equal credits. The home side started the second half brilliantly and they were rewarded instantly as Pepe slotted a beautiful header past Claudio Bravo from a Toni Kroos’ corner.
After taking the lead Real Madrid searched for more opportunities and produced more and more chances. Particularly Benzema, James Rodriguez and Ronaldo continuously threatened the goal.
The game came to a halt when Karim Benzema slotted a low shot to the bottom corner from a James Rodriguez’ assist. After taking the double lead Madrid really look settled and they managed to deal with the Barcelona attackers well.
The substitutions by the Barcelona’s manager went to dust as Real Madrid convincingly dispatched them. The introduction of Asier Illaramendi, Sami Khedira and Alvaro Arbeloa in the final minutes ensured the victory for Real Madrid.
The result is undoubtedly a heart break for Barcelona fans as they expected the Uruguayan to form a deadly combo with Messi and Neymar.
Finally, a strong second half performance showcased the real weaknesses in the Barcelona defense and the result is a very fare and a deserved one for the Los Blancos. On the other hand, Luis Enrique has plenty of things to ponder upon the result as Madrid is now just a point behind the leaders.
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