Marcus Rashford’s first experience of El Clasico fell short of expectations as Barcelona succumbed to defeat against Real Madrid. Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe found the net to seal a 2-1 victory for Los Blancos on Sunday, opening up a commanding five-point advantage at the top of La Liga. Meanwhile, a second loss in three league matches has left Barcelona trailing in second position.
Nevertheless, it wasn’t entirely disappointing for Manchester United loanee Rashford, who earned a starting berth and played a crucial role in setting up the visitors’ solitary strike. It was Rashford’s clever movement down the left flank and subsequent cross that allowed Fermin Lopez to equalise in the 38th minute. That represented the England international’s finest moment before he was moved up front after Ferran Torres was substituted.
Despite the deflating outcome, Rashford earned plaudits from portions of the Spanish press following his display. And his maiden outing in one of football’s most prestigious encounters could have proved far more challenging in retrospect.
Spanish outlet AS wrote: “The Englishman had a good performance in his first Clasico. He set up Fermin to equalize and worked hard in the pressing.”
Barcelona entered Sunday’s clash without a host of crucial players, with the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Gavi and Dani Olmo all missing from the squad.
Nevertheless, Sport offered a glowing assessment of Rashford’s chances before his maiden Clasico appearance.
They praised his stint so far, declaring the Red Devils exile is ‘living the dream’ since arriving at the Camp Nou on a season-long loan.
“Rashford will have a starring role in a true Clasico,” read the report. “When the ball is kicked off, he’ll be one of the surprise guests at the table for La Liga’s most important match.
“Predictably, with Ferran back in the starting lineup, he’ll play on the left wing. A golden opportunity for the British icon to continue showing the world that he’s back and on the right path.”
Mundo Deportivo proved far more critical of Rashford’s display and branded his performance ‘baffling’ despite the 27-year-old coming away with an assist.
Their assessment of his contribution stated: “His smart assist to Fermin… didn’t fix a match in which he seemed capable of creating more danger than he did when he received the ball.
“He didn’t make the most of his power when he had space. As a No. 9, he was worse than as a winger.”
Elements of that critique might appear puzzling given Rashford’s contribution exceeded that of most team-mates, but he will surely be focusing on the positives.