Barcelona vs Espanyol, La Liga: Final Score 1-0

The Xavi Era at Barcelona started with a win over Espanyol in the Catalan derby at Camp Nou, but it wasn't easy. The Blaugrana seized a one-goal lead early in the second half after a brilliant first half, but their opponents stepped up their game and created several huge chances to take at least one point. 

In the first half-hour, Barça was outstanding, with a level of intensity on both sides of the ball that we haven't seen in a long time. They pressed high without the ball, giving Espanyol no time to breathe and try to string together long passing sequences, and they continued to win the ball back in dangerous positions high up the pitch. The second half began with a goal for Barça: Memphis was pulled down inside the area by Cabrera after a wonderful feed from Gavi, and Memphis buried the penalty to give Barça a deserved lead.