Real Madrid edge Barcelona in opening Clasico

Real Madrid came away with a 3-1 win in the opening Clasico of the season against Barcelona to lay down a strong marker for the La Liga Santander title.

Los Blancos won the battle in midfield, where Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Fede Valverde dominated their rivals to help them get off to a good start which eventually proved the difference.

Barcelona got back into the game late on, with Ferran Torres halving the deficit but a late penalty from Rodrygo sealed the win for the hosts.

Without playing a great game, Real Madrid gained a comfortable lead. Vinicius broke clear of the Barcelona defence before his shot fortunately rebounded into the path of Karim Benzema for 1-0.

Madrid doubled their lead when Ferland Mendy picked out Valverde at the edge of the box who was given too much time and space. The Uruguayan dispatched the ball neatly beyond Marc-Andre ter Stegen for a big half-time lead.

Before that second goal, Robert Lewandowski spurned a golden opportunity, as his outstretched boot could only divert the ball over the bar from within the six-yard box.

The second half was a different story as the visitors dominated. Ansu Fati, on as a substitute, provided the spark. His shot midway through the second half went just wide of the post.

Lewandowski was then brought down in the box by Dani Carvajal although the referee showed no interest, and neither did VAR.

Late fightback ended by Rodrygo

The deficit was halved with ten minutes left as some fine work from Fati, leaving two defenders for dead before crossing to Ferran Torres who gave Barcelona hope.

However, Madrid sealed the game in the closing stages. Minimal contact from Eric Garcia brought Rodrygo to the ground and this time the VAR was quick to advise the referee that a foul had been committed.

Rodrygo got up to take the penalty and seal a crucial 3-1 win for Madrid against Barcelona, putting them three points clear at the top of the table.