Xtra Time Web Desk: Goals from Karim Benzema, Federico Valverde and Rodrygo saw Real Madrid beat Barcelona 3-1 in El Clasico on Sunday at Santiago Barnebeu. The win saw Carlo Ancelotti’s side go three points clear of Barca at the top of points table in La Liga.
Barca had no answer to Vinicius Jr’s relentless pace and Toni Kroos’s precise passes for Real and both were the architects of several chances, including the first two goals. The pair combined well to pave the way for Karim Benzema to score the opening goal in the 12th minute. Vinicius Jr’s close-range shot was blocked by Andre ter Stegen, only to find Benzema scoring from the rebound.
The home side extended the lead in the 35th minute with Vinicius taking advantage of a mistake by Barca defender Eric Garcia. The Brazilian gave a perfect pass to Valverde who was unmarked on the edge of the box. The Uruguayan playmaker took a pile driver that beat the outstretched hands of ter Staegen.
Barcelona pulled one goal back when substitute Ferran Torres reduced the deficit with a close-range strike from Robert Lewandowski’s low cross.
However, Rodrygo secured the full points for the home side from the penalty spot in added time, after he was tripped inside the area by Garcia. VAR clearly showed Garcia was fouled inside the box.
