WATCH: Ronaldinho's stunning free-kick as Barca edges Madrid in Legends Clasico
The first of two Clásico matches between Barcelona Legends and Real Madrid Leyendas concluded in thrilling fashion, with the Blaugrana emerging victorious in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in Qatar.
The encounter, witnessed by a crowd of 31,000 fans, showcased the enduring skills of some of football’s most celebrated veterans.
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Barcelona took control early in the match, with Juan Pablo Sorin opening the scoring in the eighth minute. Sorin latched onto a cross from Ludovic Giuly to put the Catalans ahead. The momentum continued when Ronaldinho produced a moment of magic, curling a free-kick past Real Madrid’s defensive wall to double Barça’s lead. The Brazilian maestro, who dazzled the crowd with his trademark flair, came close to scoring a second goal but narrowly missed after outmanoeuvring Fernando Sanz.
Ronaldinho also set up Roger Garcia with a precise pass, but Garcia’s effort struck the crossbar, denying Barcelona a commanding lead.
Real Madrid’s Second-Half Comeback
Los Blancos found their rhythm in the second half, with Luis Figo leading the charge. The Portuguese legend pulled one back for Madrid before Edwin Congo capitalised on a loose ball to equalise. The game intensified as Barcelona was awarded a penalty after Ricardo Quaresma went down in the box. However, Patrick Kluivert’s spot-kick was saved, keeping the scoreline level at full time.
Penalty Shootout Glory for Barcelona
The match was decided by penalties, where Barcelona triumphed 4-1. The result adds to the excitement ahead of their next clash, scheduled for December 15 in Tokyo. That match is expected to feature additional legends, including Andrés Iniesta, Xavi, Rafa Márquez, and Javier Mascherano, representing the Barça side.
The event in Qatar comes shortly after Barcelona Legends' 2-1 victory over Pele Pequeno Principe Legends in Curitiba, as the team continues to rekindle its storied rivalry with Real Madrid on a global stage.
Watch highlights of the match below;