FC Barcelona manage to do something that few in the footballing world saw them doing. After beating Napoli with a resounding 3-1 victory, the Catalan giants continue to roar in the UEFA Champions League. As Barcelona live to fight another day, it is with great joy they continue their European journey.
An early segment of the game that saw Barcelona deliver arguably their best opening 20 minutes of the season provided two back-to-back goals for Xavi’s men. Despite some scares and lack of energy later on, it was ultimately one of the Barcelona coach’s substitute who gave Barça some relief at the end as well.
Here is how the Barcelona players fared against Napoli.
Player Ratings:
Marc-Andre Ter Stegen: 8.0
Despite the early control in the game for Barcelona, Ter Stegen was soon needed at almost every interval. Some of the game’s most crucial offensive moments for Napoli had to be stopped by the German’s excellent saves. Great game by the Barcelona captain.
Joao Cancelo: 8.0
The Portuguese fullback showed his best qualities in this game as well as his less positive ones. Barça’s first goal came through an early carry from the fullback, and the second was his goal by himself after a rebound came his way. Solid outing from the fullback on loan from Manchester City.
Pau Cubarsi: 9.0
Are there even any words left to describe this surreal pearl? Pau Cubarsi played a game that even veterans of the Champions League would pat themselves on the back for. His passing, defensive resilience, and maturity was top-notch at all points of the game. Some of his long balls, in particular, were absolutely world-class.
Ronald Araujo: 8.0
Dominant against Napoli’s Nigerian threat, Ronald Araujo had a game to remember. Even while one side of his face was bleeding, the Uruguayan did not step to do whatever was necessary to ensure that Barcelona kept their lead. A performance worth building on from.
Jules Kounde: 8.5
Just like the rest of his partners in defense, the Frenchman was exceptional. The former Sevilla man showcased just how good he can be even as a fullback, and he left no stone unturned as he gave his all to help Barcelona out both offensively and defensively.
Andreas Christensen: 6.5
While the Danish player had his moments of defensive confidence, he was rather lethargic and poor with his distribution. A lot of times his slow control adversely impacted Barça’s own fluidity, and that is possibly why he was one of the first players taken off by Xavi.
Ilkay Gundogan: 8.0
Ilkay Gundogan may not be the name to pop up when looking at the scoresheet, but his influence in the game was undeniable. A true veteran of the competition and he proved his mettle. His pass to Sergi Roberto for the third goal in particular was crucial.
Fermin Lopez: 8.0
The Spanish youngster was as dynamic as ever. Courtesy of his aggressive runs in behind the Napoli defense and consistent pressure, Barcelona looked in control and played their best football. He was also responsible for being the first name on the scoresheet to put Barcelona in front. Exemplary performance overall.
Raphinha: 8.5
Irrespective of his inconsistencies this season, Raphinha did well to showcase a better version of himself in this game. Both goals were essentially his assists, the first coming as a direct pass to Fermin Lopez, and the second one as a rebound to Joao Cancelo. Solid performance from the Brazilian winger.
Robert Lewandowski: 7.0
The Polish striker did not exactly have a vintage Robert Lewandowski performance, but top strikers seldom need their best games to help them score a goal. His run for the third goal that gave Barcelona a lot of comfort was key, and he ended up scoring for himself as well in the process.
Lamine Yamal: 7.5
In terms of flair, creativity, and creating danger, Lamine Yamal had his typically brilliant game. However, his inexperience had its negative moments in front of goal where he was sometimes too hesitant and too hasty on other occasions.
Substitutes:
Oriol Romeu: 6.0
Unlike his fellow veteran Spaniard who came on, Oriol Romeu was rather lethargic in his plays. Some misplaced passes from him gave Barça some frantic scares, and even Xavi looked especially displeased at some points.
Sergi Roberto: 8.0
Exceptional with every touch he took, Sergi Roberto truly refueled Barcelona as soon as he came on. His brilliant run and composed pass for Robert Lewandowski’s goal was just the icing on the cake his performance needed.
Joao Felix: N/A
Not enough time or influence on the game to warrant a rating.
