Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang stunned the Santiago Bernabeu with two goals and an assist as Barcelona thrashed Real Madrid.
Since joining the Catalan side in January, Aubameyang has scored seven goals in seven La Liga games and is currently unbeaten as a Barcelona player. “It was important us to come here with confidence. I’ve worked hard to be at this level and I’m very happy,” said the former Arsenal striker after giving a man of the match performance in his first-ever El Classico. “This is the beginning of a new era for Barcelona.”
Despite being 12 points behind Real Madrid, who are top of the table, Barcelona are now third in La Liga on 54 points and have turned their form around since the start of the season. Their new manager and former player Xavi, reflected on his side’s historic victory: “The game was spectacular and we were far superior to Real Madrid. We haven’t had many moments to enjoy in the past but this is a day to celebrate. Barcelona are back.”
Embed from Getty ImagesReal Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, has already managed two victories against Barcelona this season. However, this time around, they were far inferior. “I got it wrong,” said the three-time Champions League winner. “We know how important a game like this is for our fans but we can’t let this affect us going forward. I won’t get it wrong a second time.”
Karim Benzema was injured for Sunday’s clash but should be returning after the international break. Real Madrid’s next game is against Celta Vigo, who Benzema scored a hattrick against last time they met.
Aside from Aubameyang getting on the scoresheet, Ronald Arujo and Ferran Torres also contributed to the scoreline. Arujo converted a header in the 38th minute and Torres slotted the ball into the top right in the 47th. Real Madrid’s goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois wasn’t pleased with his side’s display: “Today we gave our club an unacceptable image. This badge we wear demands that we fight and in the second half, we didn’t do that. We could have conceded even more.”
Barcelona will face Sevilla in their next league game after the international break. Sevilla, are only three points ahead of their next opponents and have played one more game than them. Although Barcelona are a long way off Madrid, they’ll want to take any chance they can get to move further up the table.
