Barcelona's Ludovic Giuly celebrates scoring against Espanyol during their Spanish Super Cup first leg soccer match in Barcelona August 17, 2006.(Xinhua/Reuters Photo) Photo Gallery >>>

    MADRID, Aug. 18 (Xinhua) -- Ludovic Giuly scored the lone goal to give FC Barcelona a 1-0 victory over crosstown rival Espanyol in the first leg of the Spanish Supercup on Thursday.

    Ronaldinho created the goal by sending a pass to an unmarked Giuly, who shot past advancing goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz.

    The two teams meet at Camp Nou stadium for Sunday's second leg of the matchup between the league champion and the Copa del Rey winner.

    The Spanish league season kicks off on Aug. 26.

    Espanyol, playing its first competitive game under new coach Ernesto Valverde, almost took the lead in the 19th minute but Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes parried a powerful shot by striker Luis Garcia.

    Former Juventus defender Zambrotta, who helped Italy win the World Cup last month, appeared in the 82nd minute to make his official debut for Barcelona. Enditem