FC Barcelona manage to scrape past a resilient Villarreal side by 1 goal courtesy of their midfield maestro Pedri. Here’s how the players fared in this hotly-contested La Liga Santander clash.
Player Ratings:
Marc Andre Ter Stegen: 7.0
Was not tested much, and did not have to be burdened a lot to maintain his clean sheet. Courtesy of his defense, the Barcelona captain enjoyed a rather tame night.
Alejandro Balde: 6.5
The youngster was kept out of the game mainly due to Villarreal’s tactics in nullifying him. Definitely needs to improve on his crossing consistency though, as sometimes it can waste rather promising attacks.
Andreas Christensen: 7.0
A comparatively solid performance by the Danish defender, Christensen rarely ever put a foot wrong during the game and maintained his composure when called upon.
Ronald Araujo: 8.5
Made some insanely crucial clearances that may have likely ended up in the back of Barcelona’s own net. One of his best performances in a Barcelona shirt, one amongst many others. Absolute wall.
Jules Kounde: 7.5
The Frenchman definitely has had better games for the Catalans, but tonight was no exception to his commitment and natural talent. Classy defender through and through.
Franck Kessie: 7.5
An absolute towering figure in that midfield, Kessie’s physicality was there to be seen and witnessed across his time in the match. A general in his role tonight.
Frenkie De Jong: 8.0
The Dutchman’s cascading and mazy runs across the field are always a joy to watch. Winning his duels, providing key passes as well as forming entire offensive routes by himself, great performance from the midfielder.
Pedri: 8.5
Arguably the man of the match, and it’s not just thanks to his goal. The youngster was running the show for FC Barcelona throughout his time on the field. At a point, the only contingency for him Villarreal could muster up was to foul him all over the pitch.
Gavi: 7.0
Despite his diminutive stature, the young La Masia product was out there hungry for the ball. Competing and winning not just grounded duels but also aerial ones. Strong presence from the youngster.
Robert Lewandowski: 7.5
Despite the veteran striker’s rather unfortunate spell in front of the goal, his playmaking was unquestionably on point. Provided both an assist as well as a great chance that Raphinha, unfortunately, could not capitalize upon.
Raphinha: 8.0
Brilliant in helping Barcelona transition into counter-attacks and it was his quick thinking as well as quick feet that allowed his team to open the scoring as well as carve open many other promising chances.
Substitutes:
Ferran Torres: N/A
Not enough time or involvement to warrant a rating.
Jordi Alba: N/A
Not enough time or involvement to warrant a rating.
