The FC Barcelona squad’s performance against Real Madrid has been assessed.
Knowing that a draw or win against Real Madrid would secure the La Liga title, Hansi Flick’s side celebrated the championship in a match overshadowed by the hosts’ internal crisis. Here’s how Flick’s players performed after the 2-0 victory at the Spotify Camp Nou.
**7 – Joan Garcia (Goalkeeper) – Reliable**
The Sallent-born goalkeeper had very little to do in the first half. He exuded calm and confidence to the backline. Saved a one-on-one with Vinicius without any apparent difficulty.
**8 – Eric Garcia (Defender) – Winner**
The versatile Martorell defender prevented Vinicius from scoring with an excellent defensive maneuver. He has earned Flick’s trust to play as a right-back. His ability to win duels and his competitive spirit are pure gold. Marking Vinicius is one of the toughest tasks in El Clásico.
**8 – Pau Cubarsí (Defender) – Focused**
The Estanyol center-back consistently anticipated Gonzalo’s moves, displaying his usual assertiveness. He is having a fantastic season with steady progression. Helped Eric in containing the ever-dangerous Vinicius.
**8 – Gerard Martín (Defender) – Dependable**
The left-back occasionally struggled with Real Madrid’s direct balls aimed at his backline. Gerard never backs down, and his reliable passing is a delight. He is a safe bet and always steps up.
**7 – Joao Cancelo (Defender) – Deep-lying**
The Portuguese full-back is very comfortable in his dual role—defender in defensive phases and winger in attack. He appears both inside and outside unexpectedly. His outside-of-the-foot pass to Ferran was spectacular. He struggled at times with Brahim.
**8 – Gavi (Midfielder) – Omnipresent**
The Andalusian midfielder is getting used to playing as a ‘6’. His aggression and competitive spirit are a blessing for Flick’s side. He never tires of recovering balls and distributing them intelligently. His defensive contribution is crucial. He also has more footballing ability than often assumed. He will definitely go to the World Cup.
**7 – Pedri (Midfielder) – Clear-sighted**
The Tegueste midfielder is responsible for adding a calm, thoughtful touch to Barcelona’s electric play. He is not yet at his best, but the current Pedri is 100% essential for providing creativity in midfield. He lacks a bit of spark but his presence is always necessary.
**7 – Dani Olmo (Midfielder) – Imaginative**
The Egarense didn’t start the match fully involved, but his lay-off to Ferran Torres for the 2-0 was world-class. A moment that reflects the class of a very special player. He missed a chance to score the third goal with a perfect opportunity. He received a very harsh stamp from Camavinga. The ensuing yellow card facilitated his substitution by Frenkie.
**7 – Marcus Rashford (Forward) – Unpredictable**
The English winger has beaten Roony to replace Lamine on the right. His sensational free-kick goal left no reaction for a goalkeeper of Courtois’ level. He almost scored a second with a cross-shot. Missed a third goal after a sublime pass from Ferran. His ability to alternate great successes with inexplicable errors is unique.
**9 – Ferran Torres (Forward) – Stellar**
The Valencia-born forward won the free-kick for Rashford’s goal and scored a great goal after a fabulous assist from Olmo. He is in a sweet moment of form. His contribution in pressing is invaluable. His pass into space for Rashford, reminiscent of Lamine, was delightful. Courtois saved a sure goal for him after a wonderful pass from Cancelo.
**8 – Fermín López (Midfielder) – Invaluable**
The Andalusian attacking midfielder is adapting wonderfully to playing as a left winger. Fermín has looked to take on Trent, the weak link in Real’s defense. His intensity is a gift to the team. His resources are incomparable.