News
SUN 14.08.2016
High-tempo Sevilla
The Andalusians came out with a clear game plan, as their high-octane approach and tight defending served to stifle Barcelona FC's attacking threat. However, Sevilla FC's impressive first-half display wasn't purely limited to containing their Catalan opponents. The hosts carved out several clear-cut chances and looked menacing going forwards, finding particular joy down the flanks.
Barcelona struck down by injuries
Things took a turn for the worse for Barça on 26 minutes when Mathieu hobbled off with an injury to his right thigh which saw him replaced by Lucas Digne. Enrique later found himself having to make another enforced change when Andres Iniesta made way for Denis Suarez on 34 minutes. Sevilla also had to shuffle their pack as Sergio Escudero's night came to a premature end following a clash with Luis Suarez.
Barça's number 9 makes the breakthrough
The second period was an all together different story. Barcelona made a brighter start and looked more assured than the Sevillians. On 53 minutes, Luis Suarez latched onto Arda Turan's cushioned chest pass to fire clinically past Sergio Rico and claim his first ever Spanish Super Cup goal. Suarez's opener also served to see the Uruguayan set the record straight and ensure that he has now found the net in all major club competitions.
Barça hit the killer blow
Just as Sevilla were enjoying one of their best spells of the game, Munir collected a slide-rule Leo Messi pass and slotted home to double the Azulgranas' advantage on 81 minutes. The Argentine ace played an inch-perfect pass into the young forward, who finished with aplomb to put Barcelona in a strong position going into the Supercopa second leg.
© LALIGA - 2016