The "Clásico de Leyendas" between the stars of FC Barcelona and Real Madrid drew 45,725 spectators to Tokyo's Ajinomoto Stadium on Sunday. Fans were treated to a nostalgic reunion of legendary players, including Andrés Iniesta and Xavi Hernández, who shared the pitch once again, nearly a decade after their last game together.

The match, held in tribute to Iniesta following his October retirement announcement, showcased Barcelona's hallmark possession style. The game's first goal came via an own goal by Real Madrid, setting the tone for the evening.

Javier Saviola, who played for Barcelona starting in 2001 and later spent a season with Real Madrid, doubled Barça's lead in the 31st minute, slotting the ball past Madrid legend Iker Casillas.

The second half saw a response from Real Madrid through a penalty converted by Javier Balboa, a former player for the club between 2005 and 2008. However, Barcelona sealed the victory when, in the dying moments of the game, a shot by Iniesta resulted in another own goal for Madrid, sending the Japanese crowd into a frenzy as they bid farewell to the legendary midfielder.

After the match, Iniesta reflected on the emotional reunion with his former teammate Xavi:
"It was very special to play with Xavi again after 9 or 10 years. Of course, it’s not like before, but it was incredible to share the midfield again and enjoy the moment," Iniesta said.

Javier Saviola expressed his joy at playing in such a celebrated setting:
"I’ve always lived for scoring goals, and being able to continue doing so in games like these is a privilege. The love and support we receive here in Japan make it even more special," he said.

On the Madrid side, Fabio Cannavaro, the 2006 Ballon d’Or winner and a former defender for the club, shared his pride in participating:
"When Real Madrid calls you for a Clásico, it’s always an honor. Wearing this jersey is not something normal—it’s always special. These moments bring back great memories," he noted.

The event brought together former teammates, rivals, and friends from two of the world's greatest clubs. Iniesta summed it up best, calling the match "beautiful" and one that "had everything."

Lineups

Real Madrid: Iker Casillas, Roberto Carlos, Fabio Cannavaro, Luís Milla, Julio Baptista, Steve McManaman, Savio Bortolini, Iván Campo, Raúl Bravo, Christian Karembeu, Fernando Sanz. Substitutes: Buyo, Amavisca, Tébar, Agus, Balboa, Congo, Pedro Contreras.

Barcelona: Jesús Mariano Angoy, Frederic Dehu, Rafa Márquez, Xavi Hernández, Javier Saviola, Andrés Iniesta, Ludovic Giuly, Rivaldo, Sergi Barjuan, Gaizka Mendieta, Fernando Navarro. Substitutes: Roger García, Roberto Trashorras, Nolito, Agudo, Valiente, Guzmán, Ferrón.