After what was an intense match, FC Barcelona managed to come away with only a slight victory. A 1-0 win against Athletic Bilbao was all that Barcelona could salvage, yet it does give them the much-needed 3 points to reinstate their 9-point lead over Real Madrid. Here is how the players fared against Athletic Club:
Player Ratings:
Marc Andre Ter Stegen: 8.5
Did not have much to do earlier but was reliable when called upon. The keeper’s ball distribution was impeccable, as it typically always is. In the second half, however, the German truly was tested and managed to showcase exactly why he has been so highly praised this season.
Alejandro Balde: 7.5
The young Spaniard showed exactly why he’s such a prodigious talent. Blazing runs down the left-hand flank and a few really good chances created for his teammates. His defensive output was also commendable.
Andreas Christensen: 8.0
The Danish center-back was completely in control and just like Kounde, was at the heart of most defensively acute actions that Barcelona performed. Great performance.
Jules Kounde: 8.5
Similar to his Danish partner Christensen, the Frenchman was at the peak of his defensive performance during this game. In the absence of Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde performed exceptionally well in his preferred position at center-back.
Sergi Roberto: 7.0
The veteran made some solid runs and was dependable enough when in possession, can not be critiqued for anything in particular during his performance at right-back in this game.
Sergio Busquets: 8.0
The Barcelona captain again combined with Raphinha to pave the way for the opening goal for FC Barcelona. Solid performance overall.
Frenkie De Jong: 7.5
The Dutchman had his wavy runs on display from time to time, but it was particularly his positioning and inclination to add numbers across the field to offer a passing outlet to his teammates that was his most convincing attribute during this game.
Gavi: 6.5
While the youngster was indeed tenacious and aggressive from time to time, his performances have been lacking the balance he showcased during previous games that he still needs to rekindle back into his arsenal.
Ferran Torres: 6.0
Rather lethargic at times and failed to connect well with his teammates on occasions, the Spaniard had a rather lackluster outing this time around at San Mames.
Robert Lewandowski: 7.0
Some solid hold-up play but a lot of missed opportunities. The Polish striker had an ample amount of chances thrown his way that a world-class striker would be expected to put away in the back of the net, yet his rather frustrating run of form continues.
Raphinha: 8.0
Having continued his instrumental form for FC Barcelona even throughout this game, the Brazilian’s excellently taken goal ended up being the deadlock breaker as well as a huge difference maker.
Substitutes:
Franck Kessie: 7.0
His physical presence was one that allowed Barcelona some more intensity in midfield but it did end up coming at the cost of some more technical aspects of Barcelona’s game that they ended up losing out on when Ferran Torres was replaced.
Marcos Alonso: 7.0
His goal-saving block was pivotal in the dying minutes to ensure that it was indeed FC Barcelona who came away with all 3 points come the end of the game.
Ansu Fati: N/A
Not enough influence on the game to warrant a rating.
