11 years to the day since Laporta's last Clasico as Barça president

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11 years to the day since Laporta's last Clasico as Barça president

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Saturday marks the first since the lawyer was re-appointed by socios last month

It's not strange that Joan Laporta is looking forward to seeing them again. It won't be at the Santiago Bernabeu this time, a ground where he's experienced many happy moments, but a few kilometres north, at Valdebebas, exactly 11 years to the day of his last Clasico against Real Madrid as Barcelona president. On that occasion, Barça won 2-0 at the Bernabeu for a key victory in the title race.

On April 10, 2010, Real Madrid and Barça were level in the standings, so there was a lot in play. Pep Guardiola's side were superior to Manuel Pellegrini's team, though, and Xavi Hernandez set up goals for Lionel Messi and Pedro. In the 32nd minute, Messi combined with Xaxi, the two taking Raul Albiol out the game before the Argentine beat Iker Casillas. In the 56th minute, Messi started a move in his own half, with Xavi eventually setting up Pedro.

The balance

On Saturday, the Alfredo Di Stefano will host Laporta's first Clasico since he returned as Barça president. In total, during his first spell in charge, he won seven, drew two and lost five.

As for the seven played in Madrid, there were four Barça wins and three losses. Without a doubt the most memorable win was the 2-6 in the 2008-09 season.

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