MONACO - Sevilla produced a spirited display to outplay Barcelona 3-0 in a lively all-Spanish European Super Cup on Friday and Daniel Alves of Sevilla was awarded the man of the match trophy.

Sevilla's captain Javi Navarro (C) holds up the European Super Cup Trophy as his team celebrates after defeating Barcelona in Monaco August 25, 2006. [Reuters]

The UEFA Cup champions bravely raced forward from kickoff to tame the Champions League winners in the traditional European season curtain-raiser.

"We couldn't be more happy," said Sevilla coach Juande Ramos. "This is excellent for our confidence and a good sign for the future. We had prepared well for this.

"Our motivation was high. We made no mistakes and were clearly on top. We have a group with plenty of enthusiasm, every player giving it his very best."

Brazilian midfielder Renato opened the scoring seven minutes into a surprisingly one-sided contest, following up after Barca keeper Victor Valdes had failed to block an effort by Luis Fabiano.

Mali forward Frederic Kanoute doubled the advantage with a header from a corner just before halftime.

Substitute midfielder Enzo Maresca wrapped it up from the penalty spot one minute from time after he was brought down in the box.

Sevilla, who demolished Middlesbrough 4-0 in the UEFA Cup final last May to win their first trophy in 58 years, were more aggressive than their prestigious opponents and bravely seized their chances.

"The team worked phenomenally hard," said Sevilla defender Daniel Alves, who was outstanding. "We know we have a team with great quality and we showed that we knew how to control the game and win it and claim another cup for the club."

Ronaldinho and company did thrill their fans on occasions with clever combinations but Barcelona were too passive and clumsy in front of goal on a warm, still night in the principality.

Barcelona were the clear favourites after crushing King's Cup holders Espanyol 3-0 at the Nou Camp last Sunday to win the domestic version of the Super Cup 4-0 on aggregate.

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