Barcelona secured a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid in Saturday’s American preseason classic at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, thanks to a standout performance from Pau Víctor, who netted both goals for the Catalan side.
The highly anticipated El Clásico was marred by a weather delay, with lightning in the area forcing a stoppage just 11 minutes into the first half. The players were sent to the locker rooms for over an hour before returning to the pitch.
Upon resumption, Víctor showcased his pre-season prowess and furthered his bid to become a key figure under new coach Hansi Flick. Having already scored against Manchester City earlier in the week, the 22-year-old continued his impressive run by scoring both goals for Barcelona.
In the 42nd minute, with the rain pouring steadily, Víctor broke the deadlock. Álex Valle delivered a precise cross from the right, and Robert Lewandowski’s deft touch set up Víctor, who headed the ball into the net from close range.
The weather briefly halted play again, but once the action resumed, Víctor struck once more in the 54th minute. Valle’s cross found Víctor, who stretched to connect and beat Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois for Barcelona’s second goal.
Real Madrid, bolstered by the introduction of Vinícius Júnior, fought back late in the game. With eight minutes remaining, Nico Paz capitalized on a lapse in Barcelona's defense to head in a corner delivered by Arda Güler, narrowing the deficit to 2-1.
Despite the late rally from Madrid, Barcelona held firm to record their fourth consecutive win in American Clasicos, sending a strong message ahead of the new season as they aim to topple the reigning champions of Spain and Europe.
Both sides were missing key players following summer international commitments. Barcelona’s squad was without Euro 2024 winners Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres, while Ronald Araújo, Pedri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, and Ansu Fati were sidelined with injuries. Real Madrid, meanwhile, is still awaiting Kylian Mbappé’s debut and was also missing Jude Bellingham, who did not travel for the tour.
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