FC Barcelona started their La Liga campaign with a shock 1-0 defeat at promoted CD Numancia and champions Real Madrid CF also came unstuck away from home, losing 2-1 to RC Deportivo La Coruña.
Super Mario
After finishing a disappointing third last season, Barcelona appointed Josep Guardiola as their new coach and brought in a host of new players. However, Numancia were not overawed and took a 13th-minute lead through Mario. Barça dominated possession, especially in the second half, but could not draw level, Samuel Eto'o and Lionel Messi going closest for the Catalan side.
Aerial prowess
Real Madrid fell behind in the 27th minute when Mista nodded in, but were on level terms just after the break, Ruud van Nistelrooy striking in typical fashion with a clinical volley inside the area. The home side were back in front within five minutes, though, Alberto Lopo meeting a corner to score his side's second header of the night and secure the win.