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17.08.2009 11:50
Xavi deserved ovation
Roger Bogunyà
Xavi was given a standing ovation as he left the field having been substituted on Sunday evening by the San Mamés faithful after helping to guide FC Barcelona to a 2-1 victory in the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup tie against Athletic Club.
"They applauded Xavi for his performance, his
professionalism, his behaviour, the respect he always shows to the opposition and the fact that he
does everything well," Pep Guardiola said. "I am pleased that he has received the recognition from
the fans like this."
Super Cup debut
The game in San Mamés was special for Xavi because eleven
years after he made his first-team debut for Barça, also in the Spanish Super Cup, he was justly
given an ovation that he deserved. Since that first game on August 12, 1998, he has played every
match with respect, grace and ability.
Creative genius
Of course, if Xavi had not played well he would not have received the applause, but like always he put in a good display and was the creative force behind so much of what Barça did going forward against Athletic.
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Goals record
Despite the Spanish Super Cup being seen as a lesser competition than any of the three trophies
that Barça won last term, it is in this even that Xavi has a great goals record. In his six
appearances the midfielder has netted three times. The first was against Real Mallorca eleven years
ago, while the second came against Espanyol in 2006/07 and the third was on Sunday night in San
Mamés.
