Barcelona 1-0 Atletico Madrid: Player Ratings

Barcelona had the pleasure to host arguably one of the most inform teams in Europe at the moment as Atletico Madrid made the trip to Camp Nou for gameweek 31.

In multiple ways, it was the unstoppable force vs the immovable object, but in a different context this time. Barcelona, ton top of the table and 11 point clear, were immovable in multiple ways, while Atleti, having won eight of their last ten, were in unstoppable form.

While the game was relatively open, neither team had a clear cut chance on goal. Ferran Torres opened the scoring in the 44th minute, and Barcelona rode that wave until the end of the game, largely trouble free.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen: 9

Made three incredible saves to keep Barcelona in the game, including a one-handed stop against Antoine Griezmann from point-blank range.

Jules Kounde: 8

Kounde had some trouble dealing with Lemar and Carrasco on the same flank, but kept them quite, for the most part, barring one chance.

Ronald Araujo: 7.5

Was uncomfortable on the ball at times, especially when pressed by Correa and Griezmann, but never faltered. Eventually came in clutch with some top-notch clearances.

Marcos Alonso: 6

Alonso was unconvincing, and was unable to keep up with Atleti’s constant pressure. Picked up a yellow card and had to be taken off at the hour-mark.

Alejandro Balde: 6

Was unable to showcase his best ability, his dribbling, today, and was locked up quite well by Atleti’s midfield.

Frenkie de Jong: 7.5

De Jong returned to Barcelona’s midfield and instantly improved their ball-circulation and build-up from the back. The Catalans found it difficult to retain possession after he was taken off.

Sergio Busquets: 7

Excellent at the base and had no trouble retaining possession and keeping the play alive with quick thinking. Found runners with ease as well.

Gavi: 6.5

Not his best performance, but Gavi did help the team with some runs from midfield through lines of pressure.

Raphinha: 8.5

The best outfield player for Barcelona today, Raphinha created most of the chances in the game. He already had an assist to his name, but could have easily gotten one or two more. Missed an easy chance, but defended with the heart on his sleeve.

Robert Lewandowski: 5

Lewandowski’s poor form continues in front of goal as the Pole was unable to make the most out of Barcelona’s chances. He missed a few easy opportunities, but the worst was when he decided to take a shot at goal from 35 yards out when Raphinha was completely unmarked in a 2v1 situation against Oblak.

Ferran Torres: 7.5

Not his best performances by any measure, as he was unable to get past Molina. Did score the only goal of the game, though, and has to be credited for the same.

SUBSTITUTES:

Pedri: 6.5

Did not have the time or game rhythm to attempt anything fancy or out of the ordinary, but kept the ball ticking.

Eric Garcia: 5.5

Was dribbled past thrice within five minutes of coming on. Managed to grow into the game, though.

Franck Kessie: 6

Added much-needed grit to the midfield.

Ansu Fati: N/A

Came on with three minutes to spare, did not warrant a rating.