Real Madrid were crowned champions of the latest edition of the LaLiga Promises Santander National Tournament after prevailing over FC Barcelona in a thrilling mini-El Clasico in Vila-real.
Final
After having overcome Sevilla FC and RCD Espanyol in their respective semi-final ties, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid would do battle for the coveted crown. The opening period, in which the respect amongst both sets of players for their opponents was evident, saw both teams create a raft of chances. Despite no shortage of goalmouth action, the sides went in goalless at the interval.
Los Merengues made a bright start to the second half and in the 25th minute, Paulo Iago slotted home a textbook left-footed finish, which proved to be the winner. Los Azulgranas probed away in search of an equaliser, with Xavi Castellanos and Landry coming closest to restoring parity. However, no further goals were forthcoming as Real Madrid clinched glory.
Semi-finals
Sevilla and Barcelona were the first sides to contest the right for a spot in the final and the two teams served up an intriguing semi-final encounter. The Catalans took the lead through a Landry strike and although Ibra later levelled terms, Barça proved too strong as Landry hit his second, before Lamine Yamal added extra gloss to the scoreline.
In the other last-four contest, Real Madrid once again staged a stirring comeback to oust Espanyol. The Barcelona-based side went 1-0 up through Leo, only for goals from Paulo Iago and Marcos to complete the fightback and seal Madrid's place in the final.
Source: laligaes.es