FC Barcelona lose for the second time in a row across all competitions. Losing 3-2 in Belgium against Royal Antwerp, the Catalans have managed to gain no points from a rather inconsequential game. The main purpose was to remain match fit and give new faces a chance, both of which have been achieved.
However, this second loss in a row is a rather worrying sign. Regardless of which players got to start and which did not, Barcelona are expected to always deliver. Ultimately, they were careless and managed to give away free points to Antwerp.
Here is how the Barcelona players fared in Belgium:
Player Ratings:
Inaki Pena: 6.0
Conceded two goals that were hardly stoppable for the Spanish goalkeeper. However, the first one was also a passing error from the keeper himself. Ultimately, his individual performance was nothing too exceptional.
Hector Fort: 7.0
The young 17-year-old made his Champions League debut. His rather dynamic footwork and fancy trickery showcased a new dynamic at that right-back position. In particular, his understanding with both Fermin Lopez and Lamine Yamal stood out for their collective play.
Jules Kounde: 6.5
The Frenchman was quite lackluster initially. However, as the game went on, the defender started to get into his groove. More aggressive and assertive in his defending, his performance improved significantly later on.
Andreas Christensen: 6.5
The Danish defender was also quite solid in his work. Both the first two goals conceded came in ways that Christensen could not have stopped in any way. Solid performance overall, however.
Alejandro Balde: 7.5
This was arguably one of the most dynamic performances from Alejandro Balde this season. Much more energetic, pacey, and dangerous to deal with for the opposition. Xavi will likely consider exactly how to better utilize him from now on.
Oriol Romeu: 5.0
An absolutely frustrating night for Oriol Romeu and the Barcelona fans watching, the Spanish midfielder gifted two goals to the opposition. Either staying on the ball for too long, or simply not being attentive enough, Romeu ensured Barcelona was consistently on the back foot.
Fermin Lopez: 6.5
The press from Fermin Lopez was consistently annoying for Royal Antwerp to deal with. However, the Spaniard could not leave an impact on the game that changed the outcome. Still, a good performance from the young 20-year-old midfielder.
Sergi Roberto: 6.5
Returning to the starting eleven after quite some time, Sergi Roberto was rather reliable. His passing was sharp and so was his movement during the game. A solid outing as Barcelona captain for the club veteran.
Lamine Yamal: 8.0
Arguably the most relentless performance seen from Lamine Yamal with the first team, the 16-year-old did not stop running. Covering both the attack and helping out his defenders, the youngster was brilliant. He even managed to provide an excellent assist for Barça’s first goal, making yet another record.
Robert Lewandowski: 6.0
The Polish striker did his best in some ways, but still remains ineffective. His ability to thwart opposition defenses is no longer there, and it seems to be only a matter of time before he sees that his place as a starter is no longer safe at Barcelona.
Ferran Torres: 7.5
The Spanish striker, unlike his Polish teammate, was quite the sharp blade. Latching onto a great ball from Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres then took some intricate touches and bursts of speed before putting away Barça’s first goal. A clinical performance from the ‘shark’.
Substitutes:
Joao Cancelo: 7.0
The Portuguese fullback definitely added a new edge to the Barcelona quality after his introduction. He linked well with his teammates and created quite a few disturbances for Royal Antwerp.
Pedri: 7.0
Antwerp found it quite difficult to deal with Pedri’s intricate passes and masterful trickery. The Spaniard was great at finding spaces and running into them himself as well, but could not ultimately help Barcelona win or even draw the game.
Ilkay Gundogan: 7.5
One man who does consistently continue to perform at the best level possible is Ilkay Gundogan. The German continues to play his best football and even provided the assist for Marc Guiu’s goal. A great example of midfield play by the veteran footballer.
Marc Casado: 6.0
Marc Casado was a decent introduction into the game. Knew how to distribute possession and keep a hold of it, rather than overcomplicating his approach with it. Decent outing for the youngster.
Marc Guiu: 7.0
It seems that Marc Guiu had a knack for scoring dramatic goals. The young striker has once again added to his tally, this time in the UEFA Champions League. Despite his 2nd appearance in the competition, the in-form Spanish forward was already raring to put his name on the scoresheet.
