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6 months ago
39 ARTICLE AD
After the Champions League interlude (1-1 in the round of 16 first leg in Naples), FC Barcelona returned to business as usual. The context is still difficult around the Catalan entity, in particular because of the future departure of Xavi in June. For Getafe’s reception at Montjuic (26th day of La Liga), the coach was still without Marcos Alonso, Alejandro Balde, Gavi and Ferran Torres. He also rested certain elements like Martinez, Pedri and Yamal.
It was therefore an attacking trio composed of João Félix, Raphinha and Lewandowski who led Barça in the fight for 2nd place, occupied by Girona at kick-off. The first minutes did not bode well, like this ball lost by De Jong (6th) but the Barcelona quickly refocused to dominate with head and shoulders. Raphinha’s first attempt was only a warning (8th). The Brazilian took advantage of a long ball from Koundé behind the defense to beat Soria and open the scoring (1-0, 18th).
Raphinha’s irregularity
Proof that the former Rennais is still such an imperfect player, he sabotaged two huge situations before the break, first by hitting above when he was alone (40th), then by misjudging a pass for a João Félix , yet in an ideal situation (45th). Often described as a tough team with its two arrows Mayoral and Greenwood, and sometimes rough, Getafe was no match. Even Milla’s post after returning from the locker room was only an epiphenomenon (49th).
The break may have done Raphinha good since his one-two with Christensen allowed the Dane to serve João Félix on a plate (2-0, 53rd). It was also his call behind the defense, and his intelligent delivery back for De Jong, instead of favoring the individual solution, which allowed the Dutchman to seal the fate of this match (3-0, 61st). The goal refused to Lewandowski for a slight offside (57th) had already been forgotten. With a little more realism (75th, 81st, 86th), the score could have been heavier than this 4-0, since Fermin (90th+1) finished the job. The art and the way ; Barça takes 2nd place, one point ahead of Girona.
Written by:
Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team. As an author for the website, Manu's expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers. When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans. Feel free to follow Manu on Twitter and interact with him as he shares his expert opinions, insights, and love for French football.
