Barça’s 1×1 Evaluation Against Celta: Lewandowski’s Double Lifts the Team
The Blaugrana secured a dramatic and therapeutic victory at Balaídos, courtesy of a late penalty goal by Lewandowski in the 98th minute. The win allows the Catalan team to gain confidence ahead of the upcoming Champions League clash against Napoli at the San Paolo.
Xavi surprised with his lineup, featuring Vitor Roque as a starter. The Brazilian began on the left side, aiming to exploit spaces behind the Celeste defense. Meanwhile, Christensen, still experimenting as a defensive midfielder, showed that he needs more time in the midfield. It’s essential to note that Barcelona had absences, including Sergi Roberto, Marcos Alonso, Alejandro Balde, Ferran Torres, and Joao Félix.
After the initial 45 minutes, the score was 0-1, thanks to a goal from Lewandowski. Celta equalized after halftime, but in the last play of the match, Lamine was fouled, and the Polish striker, on the second attempt, converted the penalty to secure three vital points.
Player Ratings:
- Ter Stegen, Goalkeeper (Rating: 6): Only faced two shots, handled them securely, and was largely untested in the first half. Conceded the equalizer in an unfortunate second-half action.
- Jules Koundé, Defender (Rating: 5): Defensively sound in the first half but had the misfortune of deflecting Aspas’ shot into the net. Made a few errors in the last quarter of the game.
- Ronald Araujo, Defender (Rating: 6): Displayed strength and crucial defensive interventions. Substituted at halftime as a precaution, maintaining his reputation as a formidable force.
- Pau Cubarsí, Defender (Rating: 5): Error-free, positioned well, and displayed anticipation. A solid performance without complications.
- Joao Cancelo, Defender (Rating: 6): Played more like a winger than a full-back, losing possession at times. Showed improvement in the second half. Dealing with knee issues.
- Andreas Christensen, Defender (Rating: 6): Looked tense with the ball, focusing on avoiding mistakes. Made important recoveries but was eventually substituted after Celta’s goal.
- Pedri, Midfielder (Rating: 6): Among the best in the first half with creative ideas. Applied pressure and initiated counterattacks. Lost momentum in the second half.
- Frenkie de Jong, Midfielder (Rating: 6): Sharp in ball distribution, pressing, and ball recovery. Maintained a positive attitude, but the team gradually lost shape.
- Lamine Yamal, Forward (Rating: 5): Decent finish in the first half but denied by Guaita. Increased threat in the second half and won the decisive penalty.
- Vitor Roque, Forward (Rating: 7): Started well but declined as the game progressed. Missed a golden opportunity and was substituted in the second half.
- Robert Lewandowski, Forward (Rating: 6): Silent in the first half but decisive, scoring a crucial goal just before halftime. Converted the late penalty to secure the victory.
Substitutes:
- Íñigo Martínez, Defender (Rating: 5): Entered at halftime but couldn’t prevent Celta’s quick equalizer.
- Ilkay Gündogan, Midfielder (Rating: 6): Unable to make the expected impact, struggled to connect with teammates.
- Raphinha, Forward (Rating: 5): Attempted a dangerous free-kick but lacked effectiveness.
- Fermín López, Midfielder (Rating: 5): Late substitution with no significant impact.
- Oriol Romeu, Midfielder (Rating: N/A): Came on in the 100th minute with minimal time remaining.
The article provides a comprehensive assessment of each player’s performance in the match against Celta, highlighting key moments and contributions.
