Barcelona Player Ratings: Monaco Victory, Garcia Sent Off
Barcelona secured a crucial 2-1 win over AS Monaco in the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie, advancing to the quarter-finals with a 3-1 aggregate victory. However, the victory was overshadowed by the controversial red card shown to young defender Jules Koundé.
Here are the player ratings for Barcelona's performance against Monaco:
Ter Stegen (7/10): Ter Stegen was a calming presence in the Barcelona goal, making a few crucial saves, including a penalty stop in the first half. He commanded his area with confidence and was a vital part of Barcelona's defensive structure.
Koundé (6/10): Koundé had a mixed game. While he showed his usual strength and tenacity in defense, he also committed a rash tackle on Ben Yedder in the penalty area, leading to a red card. His absence for the next game will be felt.
Araujo (7.5/10): Araujo was a rock in the heart of the Barcelona defense. He dominated the air, tackled with aggression, and kept the Monaco attack quiet for most of the game. He was a true leader at the back.
Christensen (6.5/10): Christensen played a composed game, providing a steady presence alongside Araujo. He was comfortable on the ball and helped to build Barcelona's attacks from the back.
Balde (7/10): Balde was a constant threat down the left flank. His pace and dribbling skills caused Monaco defenders all sorts of problems. He also contributed defensively, winning tackles and blocking crosses.
De Jong (7/10): De Jong was instrumental in Barcelona's midfield, controlling the tempo of the game and making important tackles. He also contributed going forward, linking well with the attackers.
Pedri (7/10): Pedri continued his impressive form, dictating play from the centre of the park. He was the engine of Barcelona's midfield, linking attacks, winning back possession, and making intelligent passes.
Gavi (6.5/10): Gavi brought his usual energy and intensity to the midfield, pressing hard and winning the ball back. He also created a couple of good chances but wasn't as impactful as in previous games.
Raphinha (7/10): Raphinha was a constant menace on the right wing. He created numerous dangerous opportunities, provided a constant threat, and put in a hardworking performance.
Lewandowski (8/10): Lewandowski led the line with his usual clinical finishing. He scored the opening goal with a powerful header and was a constant threat to the Monaco defense. His movement and hold-up play were excellent.
Dembélé (7/10): Dembélé was a creative force down the right wing. He provided the assist for Lewandowski's opening goal with a clever pass and kept Monaco's defense on their toes with his tricky dribbling and quick footwork.
Substitutes:
Kessie (6/10): Kessie brought some fresh legs into the midfield, helping to solidify Barcelona's hold on the game.
Ferran Torres (N/A): Played too little to be rated.
Overall:
Despite the controversial red card shown to Koundé, Barcelona deservedly progressed to the Champions League quarter-finals. The team showed their resilience and quality, especially in the first half where they dominated possession and created numerous chances. Lewandowski’s goal and Ter Stegen’s penalty save were key moments in the game. While the Koundé red card will be a concern, the victory provides a boost to Barcelona's momentum heading into the crucial stages of the season.
