Here’s how the Barcelona players performed in the first half against Real Madrid:
Mbappé – UNSTOPPABLE
In his first real opportunity, he fired a shot past the newly appointed goalkeeper without breaking a sweat. He didn’t appear as composed as he did in his first two matches as a Barça player.
Koundé – EXEMPLARY
While he generally focused on guarding his flank, he also delivered a superb curling cross that set up the 3-1.
Cubarsí – ALERT
Against such a demanding forward line, he played a solid first half, meeting the standards required at this level.
Iñigo Martínez – INJURED
He sustained a muscle injury due to the frantic pace of the first half and had to be substituted.
Balde – PROTAGONIST
Recovering from a shaky start, he initially struggled with ball control and closing down Mbappé for the first goal. However, he came back strong and managed to beat Courtois with a powerful run just before half-time.
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Casadó – RESILIENT
He lost the ball to Vinicius, which led to the 1-0 that could have influenced the final. However, he quickly regrouped to apply the right pressure throughout the first half.
Pedri – EXPECTED
After his outstanding semi-final performance against Athletic, he was expected to be key for Barcelona in the final. Thankfully, the team didn’t rely heavily on seeing his best version in a solid first half, as he contributed to the build-up for the 4-1.
Gavi – INFLUENTIAL
His work rate and skills shone through. The academy graduate brought his renowned intensity and delivered a great cross to Raphinha for the first ‘almost goal’. He later earned the penalty that made it 1-2 by beating the reckless Camavinga to the ball.
Raphinha – DEMOLISHER
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He was heavily involved in Barcelona’s early chances, forcing two saves from Courtois, but he emerged from nowhere to score a fantastic header for the 3-1 and assisted Balde’s goal for 4-1.
Lamine Yamal – IMPRESSIVE
The brightest player of the first half, even before his goal, he showed flashes reminiscent of Messi. By the first minute, he had already tested Courtois.
Lewandowski – IMPORTANT
Although he didn’t receive a viable shooting chance until the penalty at 3-1, his intelligent assist for Lamine was crucial for the latter’s goal.
Araujo – URGENT
He was brought onto the pitch following Iñigo Martínez’s injury.
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