Barcelona defeats Real Madrid in first 'El Clásico' of the season

The team coached by Xavi Hernández was more effective in front of goal. Real Madrid missed a penalty and hit the crossbar on five occasions.

Texas witnessed the first great duel of the season between two of the most successful teams in soccer history. Barcelona's ability to convert scoring opportunities prevailed over Madrid's solid build-up play, with resulting in a 3-0 victory for the reigning Spanish first division champions at AT&T Stadium in Dallas. It did not feel like a preseason game due to the effort and intensity of all the players.

Madrid managed to shoot at Marc-André ter Stegen's goal 28 times, but they could not find the back of the net. Vinicius Jr. missed a penalty in the 20th minute and hit the crossbar three times. Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouaméni were also unlucky and rattled shots off the woodwork.

The first goal of the game in the 15th minute. After a crafty move, Ousmane Dembélé beat Thibaut Courtois with a low screamer. Five minutes later, Real Madrid had a chance to level the score from the penalty spot, but Vinicius Jr. missed the target.

It was not until the 85th minute that the second goal was scored. Fermín López, a Barcelona youth player, scored with a spectacular shot from the edge of the area. His beautiful goal lifted the fans out of their seats. Ferrán Torres closed the scoring in stoppage time.

It was an important victory for Xavi Hernandez's squad, who boosted their morale after suffering a drubbing a few days ago against Arsenal. Real Madrid, meanwhile, will have to improve their effectiveness in front of goal.