FC Barcelona emerge victorious in the hotly anticipated El Clasico clash between themselves and Real Madrid in the first leg of their Copa Del Rey semi-final. The Catalans come through as the victors despite having many of their star players out injured coming into the Santiago Bernabeu. Here is how the players fared against Real Madrid.
Player Ratings:
Ter Stegen: 7.0
Was not tested for most of the game, but came through and showcased leadership and initiative whenever called upon. Another clean sheet for the German International, who takes his tally to 19 this season.
Ronald Araujo: 8.0
Pocketed Vinicius Jr. for the entirety of the game, and arguably thus eliminated their most potent offensive creator. His athleticism and improved game sense have truly become the kryptonite for Real Madrid’s prized Brazilian winger.
Jules Kounde: 8.0
Just as Ronald Araujo stood his ground on the right flank of the defense, Jules Kounde was an absolute sentinel in the middle of it. Great performance by the Frenchman, who has arguably shut down all his recent critics singlehandedly.
Marcos Alonso: 7.0
Was not truly tested to the maximum, but also managed to showcase just how important his big-game experience can be for the Catalans. The Spaniard was under constant scrutiny in recent times but has met it back with positivity.
Alejandro Balde: 7.0
Had to be a bit passive at times and not as offensively adventurous as he tends to be usually, a solid game by the youngster though, as he continues to develop and improve game by game in varying aspects of his arsenal.
Sergio Busquets: 7.0
His intricate passing and dependable hold-up play were crucial in minimizing the damage Real Madrid’s press would do to the Blaugrana’s structure. Solid display by the captain who was rather sorely missed during his absence from the Catalan team due to injury.
Frenkie De Jong: 7.5
His ability to single-handedly dismantle even the most organized of midfields and defenses proved to be a fatal dagger for Real Madrid, who just couldn’t cope with the Dutchman at times and simply had to watch him disassemble their game plan piece by piece.
Franck Kessie: 7.5
Physically ever-present and absolutely crucial in Barcelona’s singular winning goal in the game, massive performance by the Ivorian international. The player’s improved performances will undoubtedly leave Xavi with a considerable amount of food for thought regarding his midfield.
Gavi: 7.0
Arguably Barcelona’s quietest player of the night, which is quite unlike the youngster speaking in general terms but his defensive contributions were noteworthy. Will be potentially looking to bring back more of his usual tenacious self once fellow youngster Pedri also makes a return to the team.
Ferran Torres: 7.5
Composed and incisive with his runs and passes, the Spaniard gave a massive statement regarding just how good he can be under the right circumstances. Even with Robert Lewandowski missing, the young Spaniard managed to showcase his own unique blend of talents and awareness to keep posing himself as a threat to Real Madrid.
Raphinha: 7.0
Had his moments of brilliance as well as moments of rather tragic decision-making. Still an incomplete winger by many standards. The forward still needs time to adapt to a relatively new system that arguably does not let him perform at his most comfortable best.
Substitutions:
Ansu Fati: 6.0
Could not make an immediate impact the way he would have liked to upon his return to a Clasico, but did fairly well when in possession to continuously pose a threat.
Sergi Roberto: N/A
Did not have enough time/influence to warrant a rating.
