The encounter was the first challenge for coach Mauricio Pochettino, who has just been appointed as Espanyol new boss, following the departure of Jose Manuel Esnal.

Barcelona tactician Josep Guardiola rested a multitude of his key players, including Samuel Eto'o, Thierry Henry, Dani Alves, Eric Abidal, Victor Valdes and Yaya Toure.

Espanyol could have earned a penalty when the ball struck Victor Sanchez's arm in the penalty area, the referee didn't reward the home side though.

Bojan Krkic had the chance to put the visitors ahead in the second half after exchanging passes with Alexander Hleb, but Carlos Kameni easily blocked his effort.

Xavi and Lionel Messi came on as substitutes in the second half of the match that also witnessed no goals.

Narrow victory

Elsewhere, title holders Valencia have claimed first-leg advantage after condemning Sevilla to a 3-2 loss at the Mestalla.

The hosts came on with all guns blazing, as David Villa hit the opener only five minutes after kick-off.

Sevilla's retaliation came late, yet was fierce, with two goals from Luis Fabiano and Adriano Correira respectively after the interval.

Instant replays showed that Correira's goal should have been disallowed, as the Brazilian was several yards offside.

Eventually, Valencia managed to overturn their single-goal deficit.

Ruben Baraja netted the equalizer on 83 minutes, and Juan Mata grabbed a surprising last-gasp winner.