The hosts crushed Osasuna 3-0 on Thursday night, solidifying their hold on the top spot in La Liga.
Robert Lewandowski started the game on the bench after taking a knock while playing for Poland, and Barcelona lost Raphinha, who has been an undisputed star this season, because of his efforts with Brazil. Despite this, they won easily and moved three points clear of Real Madrid.
Ferran Torres led the line in Lewandowski’s absence and scored within ten minutes after Alejandro Balde’s accurate cross.
Seven minutes later, Sergio Herrera fouled Olmo after Pedri sent him through one-on-one. Olmo’s spot-kick was saved, but a penalty was given. However, Olmo scored his retaken kick after VAR quickly stepped in and declared that an Osasuna player had encroached into the box.
However, he needed to be substituted shortly after, limping off the field after appearing to have suffered a muscle injury.
After dominating the first half, Barca nearly scored a third goal before halftime, but Torres’ incredible free kick just rattled the bar.
Lewandowski did come off the bench in the second half, and with a fantastic delivery from Fermin Lopez, he headed a strong shot into the goal on minute 75.
Onka Sports rates Barcelona’s players
Goalkeeper and Defense
Wojciech Szczesny (6/10):
He left the pushing striker in the dust thanks to one really astute dummy. In terms of real saves, it was hardly tested.
Kounde Jules (7/10):
Once again, excellent at right-back. defends with genuine vigor and covers the ground so proficiently.
Eric Garcia (7/10):
Despite being booked, he had a solid back line and was an adventurous player. didn’t overlook any tackles.
Martinez, Inigo (7/10):
dominant. won almost all of the duels, especially the air ones. He never appeared to be in difficulty and was a fierce defender.
Balde, Alejandro (9/10):
Torres makes a fantastic ball in to finish. A very active football player that can cause a lot of trouble and is always trying to get ahead. This performance was really outstanding. Arguably the man of the match.
The midfielder
Pedri, (8/10):
Olmo successfully won his penalty thanks to a fantastic ball from Pedri. Even more metronomic. Very seldom does he let the ball go.
Frenkie de Jong (7./10):
He was replaced at halftime following a strong first half in which he kept the home team moving and showed incredible ball control.
Gavi (7/10):
Ended the match as the captain of Barcelona. A pretty neat display in the midfield.
Attack
Yamal Lamine (8/10):
In the first half, he skinned two players and barely missed the bottom corner with some incredible touches and one slaloming run. Multiple crucial passes and the attacking flair that allowed Osasuna to frequently double up on him.
Torres Ferran (7/10):
displayedtheinstinctsofastrikertoopenthescorebymeetingBalde’scross. Long before he was replaced, he led the line.
Dani Olmo (7/10):
He scored the retake, so he got away with his bad penalty. was playing well in the pocket between the left wing and the ten, but he was injured and had to be substituted.
Subs & Manager
Fermin Lopez (8 out of 10):
Came in for Olmo. Lewandowski scored from his superb movement and a superb cross.
Pablo Torre (7/10):
At half-time, De Jong was replaced. The move for Lewandowski’s goal was began by a fantastic defensive header.
Lewandowski Robert (7/10):
With 20 minutes remaining, on for Torres. scored an incredible header.
Pau Victor (N/A):
Arriving late.
Martin, Gerard (N/A):
a late substitute at 3-0.
7/10 for Hansi Flick:
Just as good as it could have been. Barcelona was never in trouble, but he will be hoping Olmo gets back soon. Only that possible setback marred Barcelona’s copybook.