The Supercopa de España took center stage Sunday with casual American viewers probably wondering what in the hell this match meant during its afternoon broadcast on ABC.
Yes, it's a supreme money grab in Saudi Arabia at an obtuse time in the season, but a Clásico is a Clásico — they're all memorable, even if they're part of the International Champions Cup and staged in Miami Gardens, Florida.
The main domestic priorities are in the league (where Barça has a three-point lead) and Copa del Rey (where both clubs are in the last-16), but the Supercopa is still a shiny trophy and a chance for players to further define their legends.
Today, it was Barcelona's 18-year-old midfield maestro Gavi who provided further evidence of his undoubtable genius.
In the 33rd minute, Lewandowski's excellent pass picked out Gavi's run and the teenager hammered a left-footed finish beyond Thibaut Courtois.
GAVI GIVES BARCELONA THE LEAD IN THE SUPERCOPA FINAL pic.twitter.com/AZPLjBSaA7
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) January 15, 2023
Just before halftime, Gavi returned the favor after receiving possession from Frenkie de Jong and squaring for Lewandowski for an easy finish.
LEWANDOWSKI MAKES IT 2-0 FOR BARCELONA pic.twitter.com/51gUuGUuky
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) January 15, 2023
It was game over in the 69th minute after Gavi helped win possession before receiving the ball out wide. His low cross took a heavy deflection, but it ended up at the feet of Pedri at the far post for 3-0.
BARCELONA ARE ON FIRE
Pedri makes it 3-0 over Real Madrid pic.twitter.com/mBPpKDWzR8— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) January 15, 2023
Karim Benzema pulled on back in added time for a final scoreline of 3-1.
What does it all mean? In his first final as manager of Barça, Xavi wins a trophy. Real Madrid needs to get it together with the specter of the mighty Seattle Sounders potentially looming in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinals.
