It was a night to celebrate more than just another win in the Champions League, which sets Hansi Flick’s side up nicely in terms of qualification, three more games to negotiate notwithstanding.
Despite Brest not being one of the bigger names, they arrived at the Estadio Lluis Companys with a reasonable record and, for long periods, were able to stifle Barça despite the Catalans having the lion’s share of possession.
Robert Lewandowski, a veteran of the premier European competition, won an early penalty after he was clattered by Marco Bizot, and the Polish international stroked home for his 100th goal in the Champions League – a tally he would add to late in the game.
It’s a remarkable feat for the front man and puts him in a rarified air that only the very best inhabit.
Only Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi – two of the best to ever play the game – had reached the milestone previously, and it serves to evidence the longevity and excellence that the 36-year-old still possesses.
Another player whose performance was headline worthy on the night was Pedri. His contribution was excellent – some might even say vintage.
A non-stop work rate underscored his showing, which included a series of wonderful passes and immaculate vision.
Indeed, his associative play with his team-mates was a joy to watch, and the way in which he helped drive the team forward was a key feature of a game that could’ve gone either way at one stage.
To keep referring to Xavi or Iniesta every time Pedri lights up the pitch is more than unfair, though as compliments go, it could be worse.
Against Brest, his performance was a great way to celebrate his 22nd birthday, which fell the day before the match.
Given how long he’s been a stalwart for the club already, Pedri’s young age is often forgotten, and makes the level of his contributions all the more remarkable.
Though a Champions League title might be beyond him and this group of players, having two at opposite ends of their careers producing at the very highest level on each European match day is to be coveted.
The way in which the team bounced back from their debacle at Celta Vigo will undoubtedly have pleased Hansi Flick too.
Onwards and upwards!
