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FC Barcelona News: 8 April 2013; Barça Begin Preparations for PSG, Atlético Madrid Drop Two Points

Dean Mouhtaropoulos

April 6 of 2013, the day Abidal claimed victory | FC Barcelona
Éric Abidal patiently worked on the sidelines for 1 year, 1 month and 12 days as he recovered for live transplant surgery. His long road to recovery came to an end last night when he was brought on for the final 20 minutes of Barça’s Liga match against Mallorca.

First training session focussed on PSG | FC Barcelona
After Saturday night’s big win, Barça’s focus has turned completely to Wednesday’s game against PSG. As usual after a game, the players who figured against Mallorca did some light recovery work, whilst the rest of the squad – including Adriano and Pedro – had a more intense session. It’s the third day that the two, who have still yet to be given the medical okay to play, have trained with the rest of the players.

Abidal, Bartra & Barcelona's options to partner Pique against PSG - Goal.com
Of more concern to coach Tito Vilanova is the defence. Another Argentine, Javier Mascherano, was injured at the Parc des Princes and the converted centre-back will be sidelined for around six weeks with ligament damage. He will miss Wednesday's match, along with captain Carles Puyol (who has recently undergone a knee operation) and Adriano (close to a return from a hamstring injury but unlikely to be risked in this one).

Barça and Messi, nominated for the Social Stars Awards 2013 | FC Barcelona
FC Barcelona has been nominated as one of the finalists as the best club in the world using social networks. The Club won the award last June and now has the chance to retain its top spot. Leo Messi has also been nominated in the sports star section.

Getafe hold nine-man Atletico in Madrid derby - Yahoo! Eurosport UK
A keenly contested opening half saw Radamel Falcao presented with the game’s first real chance, side-footing wide of the target from close range after good play by Diego Costa on the left flank. Both sides looked to be pressing high on the opposition and Atletico came close to opening the scoring on the counter attack, when Adrian’s shot was blocked by Fede Fernandez.

Late Jonas goal wins it for Valencia - Yahoo! Eurosport UK
The result puts Valencia just two points behind Real Sociedad in the race to finish in the Spanish league top four. Valencia started the game brightly, with Jonas seeing more than one effort repelled by Valladolid goalkeeper Dani Hernandez. And Hernandez demonstrated his worth to the visitors once again in the first half by saving from Canales when the Valencia midfielder broke through on goal.

Benat set for summer move - ESPN FC
"We are not talking about a new contract with Betis," Biurrun said. "Benat's future is, probably, far away from Seville. We are not going to wait until his contract runs out, but we will look for a club at the very top level where Benat can play regularly and show what he can do before the World Cup. Making the World Cup squad is a dream. That is why we are looking for a big team."

Rare away win for Vallecano | Sky Sports Football
Rayo Vallecano picked up their first away win in just under three months after a 2-0 victory over Celta Vigo. A smart finish by captain Piti gave the Madrid side the lead early in the first half and substitute Andrija Delibasic made sure of the points late on.

Jemez: Europe not just a dream for Vallecano - Yahoo! Eurosport UK
The Franjirrojos defeated Celta Vigo 2-0 on Sunday afternoon thanks to goals from Piti and Andrija Delibasic. And the Coach has claimed that they can make history come the end of the season. "We have left everything on the field here," he said. "The win was very important for our future. "It allows us to stay in the fight for Europe.

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