FC Barcelona 2-0 Espanyol: 5 Talking Points

#2 Catalan derby breathes new life

The atmosphere was electrifying

Against the norm of Barcelona making their less glamorous neighbours wipe the floor in dominating victories and a drab atmosphere in the stadiums, the Catalan derby was fiery and full of life here. The Camp Nou cauldron was bustling and echoes of the Blaugrana faithful were ubiquitous.

As Espanyol pulled off their first victory over the former since 2009, there was a sense of antagonism among a certain section of the fans who were vying for some all-out action in response. The atmosphere, resultingly, was sprightly and anxious in equal measure.

The match registered an attendance of approximately 80,000; something that’s unusual for the Derbi barceloni, given the low stakes. But that wasn’t the case this time and the thronging stands today would suggest the same.

The stellar likes of Lionel Messi and co. may have emerged victorious in the game, but Catalonia was the biggest winner on the night.