Xavi Hernandez started his reign as FC Barcelona coach with a 1-0 win in the city derby against Espanyol in the Camp Nou Stadium here. Although there were positive signs for Barca, they owed their win to a controversial penalty and some bad luck for their rivals, who saw two shots from striker Raul de Tomas hit the post.

Xavi made a declaration of intent in his starting 11 on Saturday night with 17-year-old Gavi and 19-year-old Nico Gonzalez joined by 17-year-old Ilias Akhomach, who was making his first team debut. The new coach's style was also quickly evident as Barca looked more aggressive and tried to pressure Espanyol high up the field.