Barcelona hosted Las Palmas for the first game after the last international break of the season tonight. The game promised a lot, with Xavi opting to use close to his best starting lineup, with Robert Lewandowski as the striker.
Neither team seemed coordinated enough, and there was chaos from minute one of the game.
Las Palmas held a pretty strict high-line, and were able to constantly find Robert Lewandowski offside.
But the Pole broke through once, with Raphinha able to convert his shot. However, it was brought back due to an incorrect offside call.
Minutes later, though, Palmas goalkeeper Alex Valle went through Raphinha and was sent off for preventing a clear scoring opportunity.
The first half, after a ton of chaos, finished 0-0.
Barcelona went all guns blazing in the second-half, introducing Joao Felix into the action around the 55th minute.
The Portuguese ended up making a difference, providing a sensational assist for Raphinha, who ended up getting the goal he deserved.
Barcelona eventually saw out the game comfortably and are now focusing on the PSG clash in ten days.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen: 7
Had to make no saves, and was flawless in possession, completing all but two of his passes.
Jules Kounde: 7.5
A much better second half from Kounde, who inverted to create numerical superiority in midfield. Combined well with Yamal, Raphinha, and Gundogan, and created a superb chance for Felix that was missed.
Pau Cubarsi: 7.5
Did not start the game well enough, with Munir causing him all sorts of trouble, but once he had a stronghold on proceedings, the youngster’s passing was a joy to behold.
Inigo Martinez: 7
Much like Cubarsi, Martinez was spectacular with the ball at his feet, pinging it to the attack to evade the Las Palmas midfield. Did not have too much to do defensively.
Joao Cancelo: 7.5
Cancelo did take some questionable decisions with his shooting, but also created two superb chances for Lewandowski and Raphinha, both of which should have…
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/barcelona-1-0-las-palmas-player-ratings/
Author : Udhav Arora
Publish date : 2024-03-30 21:58:33
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