FC Barcelona have managed to come out victorious against La Liga opponents Celta Vigo from a clash that is set to live in the heads of Barca fans for years to come. A game of absolute magic from La Blaugrana, it is moments like these that truly signify why this sport is so loved.
The game, as highlighted by Spanish outlet SPORT as well, showcased a side of FC Barcelona that is not only surreal to witness, but also one that is necessary for teams at the highest level to possess.
In moments of magic, brilliant performances, and those minutes where faith is everything, Barcelona prevailed with whatever measures were necessary.
Celta Vigo in control
Dull for much of the game and kept at bay by the men of Rafa Benitez courtesy of his overly passive approach. With five defenders protecting the Celta goal, three midfielders present to support the defense and help transition back into attack, and two forwards ready at a moment’s notice to attack and defend as required, Celta Vigo were undoubtedly a tough cookie to crack.
Winning mentality
However, Barcelona were adamant from start to finish. Despite conceding two goals before they even got a chance to respond, the Catalan giants remained steadfast and soon began to turn the tables around in a game where they looked done and dusted.
Chances such as a long ranger effort by Ronald Araujo, a misfire by Joao Felix, and a close call from the strike of Ferran Torres were among the very few chances Barcelona managed to generate before the 80th-minute mark and seemed to ensure that any last-remaining bit of hope vanished from within the Montjuic Stadium.
Relentless Barcelona
Yet, hope did not die and neither did Barcelona. With three goals scored within the span of 10 minutes prior to the 90th-minute mark, the Blaigranes were on top of Celta for the first time in the game at the very end of the match itself.
Several changes had to be made prior to that overturn of fortunes, however. Ronald Araujo, Alejandro Balde, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Gavi were the chosen few to represent Barcelona and bring a unique boost to the team in order to turn the proceedings of the match around and execute the directed game plan.
Robert Lewandowski
Within 4 minutes of the other, Robert Lewandowski was the one who scored two crucial, albeit very late, goals. His finishes were both sublime in their own way. A chip of the highest order to open his tally and a well-placed finish to level the score sees Lewandowski once again reach the very top of La Liga’s top scorers for this season.
The Joao effect
Moreover, Joao Cancelo ended up scoring the winning goal after having provided the assist for the equalizing goal as well. Both he and Joao Felix were arguably some of the most important figures in enabling this grand comeback against Celta Vigo that saw Barcelona emerge as 3-2 victors.
Despite the obvious, and rather stubborn, hurdle in front of them, Barca overcame it. Scoring three goals to win the game, the Catalan giants continue their fine form and have now ended up winning all six of the last six games that La Blaugrana have participated in.