A 2-0 loss for Barça Legends against Real Madrid Leyendas at the Estadio Nacional de Costa Rica. The blaugranes dominated long spells of the game, but the all-whites proved effective when it mattered. First-half goals by Antonio Núñez and Guti decided a game played in a great atmosphere and with some big names on the pitch.

Real Madrid opening the scoring

Barça Legends showed character as the game began in Costa Rica, dominating for both ball possession and chances created. The blaugranes had an early effort called offside and then Iker Casillas had to parry a strong shot for a corner. Both flanks were being used well to create pullbacks that just needed someone there to finish them.

The blaugranes remained in control as time went on, but Real Madrid Leyendas proved most effective in front of goal. Antonio Núñez opened the scoring on 24 minutes from one of their first opportunities, before Guti made it 2-0 three minutes later with an unstoppable shot from the edge of the area. Despite the scoreline, Barça continued to attack, with Montoya reaching the byeline, with his cutback almost finding Ronaldinho, before a long shot grazed the post before the break.

Control but no reward

More of the same for Barça Legends in the second half, as they were constantly on the attack. Nolito was very lively on the left, creating several good moments, while late runs into the box put the Real Madrid defence to the test, as their attack showed little the other way.

Despite the sustained dominance and number of chances, the blaugranes weren't able to convert them into goals to change the scoreline. Those in attendance were able to enjoy seeing some great players on the pitch during a match that was well-contested, with the Barça Legends deserving more, but just falling short in front of goal.

MATCH STATS

REAL MADRID LEYENDAS 2
BARÇA LEGENDS 0

Real Madrid Leyendas: Casillas, Nuñez, Pepe, Congo, Balboa, I. Campo, Guti, R. Bravo, Fernando Sanz, De la Red, Makelele. Olalla, Agus, Contreras, David Barral and Toni Moral also featured.

Barça Legends: Baia, Montoya, Puyol, Valiente, Navarro, Mendieta, Crosas, Cocu, Giuly, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho. Angoy, Fontàs, Okunowo, Roger, Trashorras, Nolito and Saviola also featured.

Goals: 1-0, Antonio Nuñez (min 24); 2-0, Guti (min 27)

Refereeing team: Bryan Cascante, Sandra Santa María, Fred Palma and Ricardo Picado.

 

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