A decisive defeat (2-1)

Barcelona (FCB).- The former Blaugrana starlet proved to be the matchwinner in the first game of the 21st edition of the competition as he netted twice before former Espanyol youngster Marc Bartra pulled one back for Barça. Espanyol had beaten Hospitalet 1-0 in their opening match, with a goal from David García, and the win against Pep Guardiola's outfit ensured that they would take home the trophy before the last encounter of the evening.

Verdú brace

None of the players that started against Real Madrid on Monday appeared in this game, but there were seven first-team stars in the XI alongside four members of the Barça B sied. With only 45 minutes to win the match was intense as both teams looked to make the breakthrough. All three goals arrived in a short space of time with six minutes separating them all as Verdú netted in the 21st and 23rd minutes before Bartra reduced the arrears in minute 27.

Barça pushed up looking for an equaliser after Bartra had headed home a corner, but after the defender had celebrated in style by kissing the badge on his shirt, there was to be no comeback.

Defending well

FC Barcelona dominated the last 15 minutes and Jeffren Suárez impressed as he shone down the right flank and caused Espanyol to sit back have to defend their lead. The Blanc i Blau defence stayed strong though and Cristian Álvarez controlled his area and ensured that the cup would be heading back to their new stadium back in Corellà-El Prat. Bojan Krkic did have a chance close to the end, but he was unable to find the net and the game was up.