It is Robert Lewandowski's first game with FC Barcelona and then a Clásico win against Real Madrid: The world footballer remains inconspicuous and misses an opportunity. After the break, he is replaced by a former BVB star - and is still showered with praise.
Robert Lewandowski celebrated a prestigious success on his debut for FC Barcelona. The Catalans won the Clásico friendly against Real Madrid on Saturday evening local time in Paradise near Las Vegas in the US state of Nevada 1-0 (0-0). Bayern Munich's long-time star striker was on the pitch for the first 45 minutes. Lewandowski was denied his best chance by Thibaut Courtois after 10 minutes, otherwise the Pole remained largely unremarkable.
At the break he was replaced by former Dortmund player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The decisive goal in the sold-out Allegiant Stadium with 65,000 spectators was scored by another newcomer, Raphinha (27th). The Brazilian came from Leeds United for around 70 million euros. Lewandowski, Raphinha and Ansu Fati formed the storm trio at the beginning.
Despite his rather pale appearance, Lewandowski was enthusiastically praised by his new coach Xavi Hernández after the duel. "Robert is a world star. A world star who came to us with incredible modesty," said the 2010 world champion. Lewandowski "adapted very quickly" to the team. He was "very happy" with the signing of Lewandowski and the Brazilian Raphinha, who scored the winning goal in the 27th minute. Xavi was delighted with the win against the Spanish record champions and emphasized: "There are no friendlies for me."
For Real Madrid with German international defender Antonio Rüdiger, the former Chelsea star played the first half as a reinforcement, it was the first test match of the US trip. The Champions League winner, who started with the most top performers, also used Toni Kroos (from the second round) and former Bayern professional David Alaba. Barça meanwhile played the second test match in the USA with national goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen. In the first game, the Blaugrana defeated Inter Miami 6-0.
