The first leg of the Spanish Super Cup between Real Madrid and Barcelona was a thrilling encounter with great football from both sides producing a 2-2 draw at the Bernabeu. It may not be the most prestigious trophy the two teams challenge for this season, but so fierce is the rivalry between the Spanish giants that both sides will give their all to gain a mental edge heading into the season proper. The array of talent in both sides means that fantastic football is almost guaranteed when they collide in this return leg at the Camp Nou.
Barcelona (10/11 to beat Real Madrid 90 mins) were not at their best in the first leg. They let Real Madrid control the game for large portions, especially in the first half, and could not gain their usual grip on possession. Pep Guardiola has admitted that they need to improve in the second leg if they want to lift the trophy. Barcelona were lucky to score two goals out of nowhere to come away with a draw and two precious away goals.
The Catalan giants will be boosted by the impressive debut of Alexis Sanchez (15/2 to be first goalscorer) in the first leg. The £22 million Chilean seems to have fitted straight into Barcelona's style of play and in the second leg Barca could be boosted further with the addition of their latest signing, Cesc Fabregas. It is unclear whether Fabregas will start but he appears to be match fit and trained with the squad on Tuesday.
Real Madrid (3/1 to beat Barcelona 90 mins) will be pleased with the way the played in the first leg but will be disappointed not to have come away with a win. Karim Benzema continued his strong pre-season form and looks to finally be developing into the player he has long promised to be. (15/2 Benzema to be first goalscorer)
Getting a result at the Camp Nou though is a much more daunting prospect. Scene of their 5-0 drubbing early last season and their Champions League exit, Real Madrid will want to even the score somewhat with a result on Wednesday night. Mourinho has made no mega-signings this summer but his side is gelling more and more with each game and the additions he has made have strengthened the side. Young Portuguese full-back, Fabio Coentrao, in particular looks talented.
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