Saturday, December 17, 2011

Barca Over Real Madrid Again

Defending champions FC Barcelona came back from a goal down against Real Madrid to take the El Clasico honours 3-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu this past week, in the latest rendition of this timeless derby.

After Alexis Sanchez cancelled out Karim Benzema’s shock 23-second opener, Barca took the lead when a Xavi drive took a wicked deflection off Marcelo and past Iker Casillas for the goal.

Cesc Fabregas then scored with a diving header for the former Arsenal captain’s tenth goal of the season to secure the three points which put Barcelona top on goal difference although Real have a game in hand.

On the down side, David Villa was taken off the pitch with a brokien leg.  Barcelona doctors now say he will be out of action for six months.  For any team other than Barcelona, the loss of a striker of Villa's caliber would be a season-changing events; but with Barca's deep resevoir of talent, the team should easily transcend this loss,

Pep Guardiola is now celebrating his fourth win at the Bernabeu since becoming Barcelona coach in 2008.  Visca el Barca!