Crvena Zvezda Match: Barcelona Player Ratings, Kounde Stars
Barcelona secured a crucial 2-1 victory against Crvena Zvezda in their UEFA Champions League group stage match, with Jules Koundé emerging as the standout performer. The French defender was a rock at the back, showcasing his versatility and defensive prowess. Here’s a breakdown of the Barcelona players’ performance:
Barcelona Player Ratings:
Jules Koundé (9/10): Koundé was simply exceptional. He was a defensive colossus, making crucial tackles, interceptions, and blocks. He was also adept at distributing the ball from the back, initiating attacks with his precise passes. His performance earned him the Man of the Match award.
Ter Stegen (7/10): The German goalkeeper was a steady presence, making crucial saves when needed. He displayed good composure and a strong command of his penalty area, preventing any major threats from the Serbian side.
Gavi (7/10): The young midfielder was a constant threat in the final third. He created numerous chances for his teammates, showcasing his excellent vision and passing range. He also worked tirelessly defensively, helping Barcelona control the midfield.
Pedri (6.5/10): Pedri was his usual composed self, dictating the tempo of the game. He controlled possession and created space for his teammates, but he wasn’t as impactful as his usual self in the final third.
Dembélé (6.5/10): The Frenchman was lively on the wing, causing problems for the Crvena Zvezda defense with his pace and dribbling skills. He provided the assist for Barcelona’s first goal, but he could have been more clinical in front of goal.
Lewandowski (6/10): The Polish striker was a constant threat in the box, but he failed to find the back of the net. He had several good chances, but he was denied by the opposing goalkeeper or his own lack of composure.
Fati (6/10): The young forward looked sharp and energetic but couldn't translate his efforts into goals. He provided a good outlet for Barcelona in attack, but his finishing was off.
Kessie (5.5/10): The Ivorian midfielder was solid defensively, but he lacked creativity in the final third. His passing was inconsistent, and he didn't make a significant impact on the game.
Balde (5.5/10): The young left-back was solid defensively, but he lacked the attacking threat that Barcelona has come to expect from him. He needs to work on his final ball and improve his decision-making in the final third.
Sergi Roberto (5/10): The versatile player struggled to make an impact. His passing was inaccurate, and he failed to create any significant chances.
Raphinha (N/A): Came on in the second half and didn’t make a significant impact.
Ferran Torres (N/A): Came on in the second half and didn’t make a significant impact.
Ansu Fati (N/A): Came on in the second half and didn’t make a significant impact.
Key Takeaways:
-
Koundé's stellar performance: The French defender was a rock at the back, showcasing his versatility and defensive prowess. He was crucial to Barcelona’s victory.
-
Lack of clinical finishing: Despite creating several chances, Barcelona struggled to convert them into goals. They will need to improve their finishing in future games.
-
Important victory: This win is crucial for Barcelona as they aim to secure a place in the knockout stages of the Champions League.
The victory against Crvena Zvezda keeps Barcelona in the race for qualification from their group. However, they need to maintain their focus and improve their finishing to achieve their goals in the tournament.