Barcelona defeated Athletico Bilbao 2-1 in the first match of the Super Cup in Bilbao. Barcelona maintained their attack throughout the match. From the beginning of the game they were well over their opponents. Bojan attacked twice in the first five minute of the game . However Xavi missed the best chance at the 25th minute when he was fed just before the post by Henry. Xavi's shot went above the crossbar. Fernando Llorento then tried his luck in the opposite side when his shot from near the halfline was saved brilliantly by Valdes. Alves also had a similar try saved by Bilbao goalkeeper Iraizoz.
Athletico Bilbao took the lead at the end of first half when De Marcos took advantage of a rare Barcelona misunderstanding and then brilliantly went past Pique, dodged Alves and then his shot was deflected by Puyol and went inside the goal above Valdes.
In the second half Barcelona continued their attacks and it was at the 58th minute when Pedro recieved a pass from Henry at the right side of the penalty box and put the ball in front of Xavi who did no mistake this time.
Xavi returned the favour to Pedro after ten minutes when Pedro scored the winning goal from his pass.
Even after the second goal Barcelona kept up their attack and another Alves attack went of the hand of Iraizoz and hit the crossbar. Jeffren, who came in for Henry at 70th minute, also tested the Bilbao defence a few times.
The two teams meet again next sunday in Nou Camp to finish off the challenge.
line up:
Barcelona:
Valdes; Alves, Pique, Puyol, Abidal, Keita, Toure, Xavi(Busquets 80); Pedro, Bojan, Henry(Jeffren 70).
Athletico Bilbao:
Iraizoz; Iraola, Ocio, Ustaritz, Koikili; Gurpegi, Orbaiz, Gabilondo(Castillo 65), De Marcos (Toquero 59), Susaeta; Llorente(Etxeberria 71).
