Match Report : Barcelona's solidity puts them ahead in the first leg (0-1)

In a very evenly matched clásico in terms of play and chances, FC Barcelona won the first leg at a packed Santiago Bernabéu stadium on Thursday. 

Both the madridistas and the azulgranas were at their best in a game in which the defenses dominated the attacks of both teams.

Real Madrid started with more offensive momentum, with Modric having the first chance, which preceded a goal which was eventually taken away for a clear offside by Karim Benzema.

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Before the half hour mark, another action was invalidated by Franck Kessié's field position which was corrected from the VOR room and ultimately meant the only goal of the match was scored by Militao in his own goal after Courtois' rebound from Kessié's own shot bounced off the Brazilian.

From that moment on, the locals tried to find the way to Ter Stegen's goal more intently, although the seriousness of the Culé defense made it impossible throughout the first half.

At the restart, it was Vinicius who was almost able to equalize, shortly before Dani Carvajal volleyed a good option for Ancelotti's team. 

With the arrival of the substitutions, the pace increased and once again, Ivorian Kessié had another chance to score, but a rebound off Ansu Fati prevented it in the end.

Real Madrid would continue looking for chances until extra time with a tight shot on goal by Rodrygo that went narrowly wide.

In the end, 0-1 for Xavi's team with everything open for the return leg on April 5 at the Camp Nou. A new date to enjoy a copa clásico that will surely be one to remember.

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