Real Madrid began the Classic with a distribution of players that reflected both the rotation of the squad and the need to cover absences. In the first half, the white team was solid in defense and with a pragmatic approach in the organization of the midfield. Despite the absence of the starting goalkeeper, Courtois, due to the flu, the new Ukrainian signing appeared in his place and fulfilled his task without errors that could compromise the game.
On the right wing, the Uruguayan Valverde resumed his usual position as a full-back, although midway through the first half he showed muscle discomfort. However, the coach decided to keep him on the field, which showed confidence in his ability to continue contributing. In the center of defense, the Frenchman Konaté was very focused and serious, maintaining the organization of the block and preventing the rival from having clear opportunities.
Dutch midfielder Huygens, who opened the match with a passing error, recovered quickly and focused on supporting both the defense and the offensive transition. His work was essential to maintain the pressure on Barcelona and to help the Spanish defender Cucurella, who was in charge of neutralizing Lamine Yamal without getting carried away by the attacker's aggressiveness. For his part, the Frenchman Tchouaméni dedicated himself mainly to defensive tasks, preventing Barça from creating danger in their zone.
The Portuguese Bernardo Silva, introduced by Mourinho to accompany Tchouaméni in the double pivot, showed a good performance in the first half, maintaining possession and distributing the ball with precision. In the attacking zone, the Turkish Arda Güler was an element of constant danger, although his participation ended in a loss of the ball that led to an attacking play by Barcelona. The Englishman Bellingham, for his part, stood out for his generosity on the field, offering the ball to his teammates and helping to create scoring opportunities.
Ivory Coast striker Diomande was Real Madrid's most dangerous player in the first half, with a cross that culminated in Barcelona's goal. The Frenchman Mbappé, playing as a reference striker, took advantage of his speed and positioning to score the rival's 0-1. The goal came after a rebound from Mbappé who took advantage of Real Madrid's lack of marking, demonstrating the effectiveness of Barcelona's attack in the first phase of the match.