Robert Lewandowski debuted well and gave Madrid a lot to think about

Robert Lewandowski debuted for FC Barcelona against Real Madrid as a starter in the Clasico friendly in Las Vegas. He played the first 45 minutes before being taken off for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and he left his stamp.

The Polish striker played an important role in the game and it was obvious that he was a player respected by the opposition. Lewandowski operated as a centre forward with the number 12 on his back, flanked by Ansu Fati and Raphinha. He played like a number nine though, as he always does, looking to combine with his teammates. Early on the Polish striker turned in the middle of the pitch and ended up with a powerful shot which Thibaut Courtois parried for a corner. It was an alert for Real Madrid defenders to stay on top of him. Militao, Alaba and Rüdiger always had to keep an eye on him. That helped generate more space for his teammates, especially Raphinha. Ansu Fati also benefited from his work and had a good chance which he sent narrowly wide. Lewandowski battled with the Real Madrid centre-backs. Rüdiger wanted to wind him up but did not manage it. Robert Lewandowski showed that he would not be intimidated.

The forward looks very keen, although it was clear that he still needs more time to get used to the mechanisms of the team, but he gave the impression that it will not be hard for him to learn. He came deeper a lot into the first few yards of Madrid‘s half and helped operate in the famous third man set-up that Xavi wants to use. He demonstrated that he’s not just a killer in the box but can also link up well with his teammates. Lewandowski was taken off for Aubameyang. He left the pitch giving his former teammate Alaba a hug, someone whom he played with at Bayern Munich and he overall can be happy with his first match for Barça.