FC Barcelona vs. Atlético Madrid Match Review

FC Barcelona 0 - 2 Atletico Madrid

I'm going to start this review by saying, this is not a match FC Barcelona should have lost. The match started with Marcus Rashford attacking the ball well and having great build up with Cancelo as his left back. Look, should Rashford have converted his chances, yes. I've been hearing a lot of chatter about how his match was abysmal and that he hasn't earned his spot on the left wing. While I agree, if it wasn't for Raphinas injury, he would not be starting, but this was a solid match from Rashford. Early in the season when I'd watch Rashford, he seemed to be nervous to attack defenders, and would be dispossed easily. This match he seemed to be poised to make a difference, attacking well and getting into dangerous positions. The three opportunities he had in front of goal cost Barcelona an early lead, hence why he still earns criticism. Lewandowski up front was a ghost, I did not see him most of the game. The offensive attacks were led my Lamine Yamal and Marcus Rashford. Perhaps Dani Olmo at false 9 with Fermin in his position could have worked better. It seemed like Lewandowski did not make a meaningful addition to the match.

The main talking point is Cubarsi's red card. Was it a red card? Yes. In a rather dumb and innocent manner he keeps Simeone onside, then runs behind him. Simeone takes advantage of the situation sticking his leg out to initiate contact in an attempt to control it. Is it a dumb use of a red card, sure. However, Cubarsi was the last man and it seemed to be a clear goal scoring opportunity. I've said it before, if we are going to play the high line and risk the opponents scoring, then in that situation, let them go through on goal. I'd rather come back 1-0 down with 11 players than 1-0 with 10. Barcelona needs to pair him with a more experience center back to learn from and work in union with.

Lamine Yamal had a great match, he was able to take defenders on beat them easily with his dribbles. The issue was conversion between him and Rashford. You can play as well as you'd like but if the score remains 0, it won't matter. Barcelona need him to assist or score in these positions. While I don't think he's the biggest problem from the team, when they go scoreless they need their best players to convert.

Dani Olmo had a great match, even after Pedri was subbed out. He was able to facilitate the ball well, control the tempo of the match and create space for the team. It seemed as if even though Barcelona was down 1-0 and down a man, they had a chance to come back and tie the game. It has been rare to see multiple solid performances in a row by Olmo, but after these last two matches he seems to be much more in control of matches and his play.

Joao Cancelo always receives unnecessary criticism for his attacking style, however this match it proved to be rather important. He created many chances on goal by overlapping or playing through Rashford. I enjoy his compure on the ball, it seems with Balde, it's always his foot on the gas or he's unaware of his intent. Cancelo is able to slow down the game and reset the team, often times controlling the tempo of the game.

Moving on to Gerard Martin, many people seem to think he's a reincarnation of Maldini, and while Barcelona do win while he plays, it's doesn't necessarily mean he's the reason. This match similar to how Aruajo messed up in last years semi-finals, Martin's positioning let Sorloth in front of goal with no one in front of him conceding the 2-0. While he can fill a role well, I don't think he should be a starter. Barcelona needs to eventually sign an experience centre-back to fill the role.

FC Barcelona have a chance to come back next Tuesday, 2-0 at Atletico's home. What do I expect? The classic Simeone approach. SIt back, park the bus, and counter with speed. Barcelona will need to play much more aggresive and take chances with Cancelo and Kounde attacking on the wings.