FC Barcelona manage to come back against Real Madrid themselves from being a goal down to scoring the winner in the 92nd minute. The final El Clasico of the La Liga Santander season goes the way of La Blaugrana, and the Catalans now see themselves being 12 points clear at the top of the league table.
A game of intensity, emotions, and a validated win for FC Barcelona to top it off, the home side showcased character beyond dispute to emerge victorious from this match of high stakes. Here is how the Barcelona players fared tonight against Los Blancos:
Barcelona Player Ratings:
Marc Andre Ter Stegen: 7.0
The German International had a fairly comfortable game and was acute with his distribution and composure when called upon. The one unfortunate goal he did end up conceding was such that he himself could not do much about it.
Ronald Araujo: 7.0
Despite being credited as having scored the opener as an own goal in favor of Real Madrid, in reality there was not much of Araujo’s fault within that deflection. The Uruguayan had his hands full with Vinicius Jr. this time around however, as the duels were not as one-sided as they typically are in favor of the Barcelona defender, and he did seem troubled by the Brazilian from time to time. Solid performance over the 90 minutes without a doubt, however.
Jules Kounde: 8.0
Undisputedly the star within Barcelona’s defensive structure tonight, his positioning as well as ball progression both through carries and passes was exceptional. Kept Karim Benzema under constant vigilance and ensured that slip-ups and chances given to Real Madrid from the central channels were minimized.
Andreas Christensen: 7.0
Solid performance from the Danish international, the defender was more or less decisive enough to nullify a lot of Real Madrid’s advances. Did seem a bit out of sorts at times and a bit fazed, but managed to keep his composure in very pivotal moments which ensured a resolute defensive performance.
Alejandro Balde: 7.5
Regardless of how effectively Real Madrid were able to negate a lot of the presence that Balde is able to assert on that left-hand flank, the youngster’s raw talent and attributes seemed to keep disturbing Los Blancos and inevitably the youngster managed to grab the game-winning assist near the end of the match itself.
Sergio Busquets: 8.5
The veteran was able to turn back the clock similar to just how he managed to turn 3 Madrid players in a sensational scoop in the heart of midfield tonight. That one moment is just a singular highlight from an entire game of utter control and composure from the captain, who was just spectacular on the occasion.
Sergi Roberto: 8.0
The Spaniard seems to really love facing Real Madrid, as it was his goal itself that allowed the Catalans to crawl their way back into this game that they were so thoroughly dominating up to that point. Crucial interceptions and solid one-touch passing as well, Roberto was immense on the night.
Frenkie De Jong: 8.5
A display of pure class by the Dutchman, his dribbling and positional awareness absolutely bossed that midfield and highlighted his qualities on a field full of global showstoppers. What a talent Barcelona have at their hands.
Gavi: 7.5
The youngster was immense. Not just needing his tenacity to scare off Real Madrid, but his unreal technical prowess was also at full display time and time again and had the opposition ever so cautious whenever Gavi would begin progressing the ball.
Robert Lewandowski: 7.0
Arguably Barcelona’s least impressive performer on the night, it goes without showing how that simply showcases the average high quality of performances. A particular highlight itself, however, was his brilliant backheel that initiated the creation of Barcelona’s winner on the night.
Raphinha: 8.5
Ruthless, Relentless, Rejuvenated. Raphinha. Barcelona’s most dangerous tip of the spear as he has been in recent games, the Brazilian was creating and threatening himself time and time again. Absolutely brilliant performance from the winger, who has made himself right at home.
Substitutions:
Franck Kessie: 7.5
The hero of the night. His run and consequent goal were the deciding reason and factor that allowed FC Barcelona to come away from this game with a 12-point lead over Real Madrid. Just as he did last time around in the Copa Del Ray semi-final first leg, he is once again the culprit who stabbed the final needle in Real Madrid’s coffin.
Ferran Torres: 6.0
Did not have much to do but ensured Barcelona retained possession when needed and did most things right.
Ansu Fati: N/A
Not enough time or influence to warrant a rating.
