Unveiling Luismi Cruz: A Comprehensive Guide to Barcelona Atletic’s Mini Clasico Hero

Barcelona Atletic and Real Madrid Castilla clashed in the first leg of their Primera Federacion promotion play-off semi-final on Saturday evening, resulting in a thrilling 4-2 victory for Rafael Marquez’s Barcelona side.

The match saw Nico Paz initially give Castilla the lead, but Barcelona Atletic quickly turned the tide with goals from Chadi Riad and Roberto Fernandez, securing a halftime advantage. Carlos Dotor later equalized for Castilla from the penalty spot in the 68th minute. However, it was Luismi Cruz who stole the show, netting two remarkable goals that resembled the trademark style of Lionel Messi. Cutting in from the right flank and curling the ball into the top corner with his left foot, Cruz exhibited his exceptional skills and precision to ensure a first-leg lead for Barcelona Atletic.

Despite Cruz’s impressive form this season, he has yet to break into Barcelona’s first team, unlike some of his fellow teammates. Currently on loan from Sevilla, Cruz joined Barcelona Atletic at the beginning of the season, with a potential permanent transfer option included in the deal, as reported by Sport.

Cruz spent his entire youth career at Sevilla, and his breakthrough season came in the previous campaign, where he recorded five goals and five assists in 29 matches for Sevilla B. He also made appearances for Sevilla’s senior team in LaLiga, as well as in the Copa del Rey and Europa League.

Described as a skillful and speedy winger who predominantly operates on the right side, Cruz often cuts inside onto his left foot to unleash powerful strikes on goal, as exemplified by his standout performance in the mini Clasico.

Cruz’s loan spell at Barcelona Atletic has been highly promising, and based on his performances, there is a strong likelihood that the club will exercise their buy clause to make his stay a permanent one this summer. The 22-year-old winger has demonstrated great potential and could be an exciting addition to Barcelona’s future plans.