Barcelona Player Ratings: Monaco Win, Garcia Red
Barcelona started their pre-season tour with a positive result, defeating AS Monaco 1-0 in a friendly match. While the result was a welcome sight, the game was marred by a controversial red card shown to young star Lamine Yamal, who was substituted after receiving his marching orders.
Here's a look at the Barcelona players' individual performances:
Starting XI:
- Marc-André ter Stegen (7.5): The German goalkeeper had a relatively quiet night, but was commanding in the box and made a couple of crucial saves to keep Monaco at bay.
- Sergi Roberto (6.5): Started at right-back and offered a solid defensive performance, providing support going forward as well.
- Ronald Araújo (7): Solid as always in defense, the Uruguayan was a rock at the back, comfortably dealing with Monaco's attacks.
- Jules Koundé (7): The Frenchman was a key figure in Barcelona's defensive solidity, making crucial interceptions and tackles.
- Alejandro Balde (6.5): The young left-back was a constant threat down the flank, providing dangerous crosses and causing Monaco's defense problems.
- Gavi (7): The energetic midfielder controlled the pace of the game and was a constant menace in the Monaco midfield. He delivered a key pass leading to the winning goal.
- Frenkie de Jong (7): The Dutchman was his usual dominant self in midfield, controlling possession and dictating the tempo of the game.
- Oriol Romeu (6.5): The experienced midfielder provided stability and composure in the middle of the park, shielding the defense effectively.
- Raphinha (7): The Brazilian winger was lively throughout, creating chances and making dangerous runs, culminating in a fantastic assist for the game-winning goal.
- Ansu Fati (6.5): The young striker looked sharp and confident, showcasing his dribbling skills and linking up well with his teammates.
- Robert Lewandowski (7): The Polish striker was a constant threat in the box, causing Monaco's defense problems. He eventually found the back of the net with a well-taken goal.
Substitutes:
- Lamine Yamal (5): The young winger replaced Raphinha in the second half and had a frustrating outing. He showed glimpses of his talent but ultimately received a controversial red card for a perceived foul.
- Iñaki Peña (6.5): Replaced Ter Stegen in the second half and kept a clean sheet, making a couple of important saves.
- Sergiño Dest (6): Provided energy and defensive cover on the right flank after coming on for Roberto.
- Fermín López (6): The young midfielder made a lively cameo, showcasing his attacking intent.
- Pablo Torre (6): The midfielder added some creativity in the second half, showing good vision and passing skills.
- Marcos Alonso (N/A): Came on late in the game and didn't have enough time to impact the game significantly.
- Ez Abde (N/A): Came on late in the game and didn't have enough time to impact the game significantly.
Overall, Barcelona started their pre-season tour with a positive win, demonstrating their strength in defense and attacking intent. The red card shown to Yamal was a controversial incident and serves as a reminder that Barcelona's young players are still developing and need to be handled with care.
Key takeaway:
- Barcelona's defense was strong and organized.
- Gavi and de Jong were dominant in midfield.
- Lewandowski and Raphinha were key figures in the attack.
- Yamal's red card is a concern.
The game was a valuable test for Barcelona as they prepare for the upcoming season. The team will be hoping to build on this win and continue their strong pre-season form.
