Barca Blaugranes - UEFA Champions League: SL Benfica vs FC Barcelona: Full Match Coverage#GraciesTitohttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47187/barca-fave.png2012-10-05T09:08:28+02:00http://www.barcablaugranes.com/rss/stream/32068912012-10-05T09:08:28+02:002012-10-05T09:08:28+02:00UCL: Benfica vs Barcelona: Player Ratings
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<p>A Player-by-player breakdown of Barcelona's impressive 2-0 UEFA Champions League win over Benfica at the Estadio da Luz</p> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> </p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Victor Valdes</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.0</i></td>
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<td style="vertical-align: top; font-size: 12px;" colspan="2">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>40</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>22</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>82%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots Faced</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>7</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Saves Made</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>7</b></span>
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<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>7.5</i></b></span>
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<span style="font-size: 12px;" lang="EN-US"> </span>
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<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Valdés put in an excellent performance on Tuesday; one that will fill him with confidence heading into the Clasico. It may only have been his third clean sheet of the season, but it was well-deserved considering that the Catalan made a number of quality saves to keep Benfica at bay. While it’s true that many of Benfica’s shots favoured power over precision, Valdés still had to make the saves – something he did very well. </p>
<p> </p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves">Dani Alves</a></td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.0</i></td>
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<td style="vertical-align: top; font-size: 12px;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>103</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>83</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>92%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
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<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>7.0</i></b></span>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A huge improvement from the Brazilian, who bounced back from his sub-standard performance against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/sevilla">Sevilla</a> with a solid night against Benfica on Tuesday. His passing was better, he committed fewer turnovers and he also did his fair share of the defensive work with a number of good tackles. </p>
<p> </p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110856/carles-puyol">Carles Puyol</a></td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.2</i></td>
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<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>78</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>86</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>79</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>97%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>5</b></span>
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<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>7.5</i></b></span>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Well, what can you say about Carles Puyol other than that he’s an incredibly unlucky guy? In his first match back from a knee injury, Puyol landed heavily on his arm after leaping for a header, dislocating his elbow in the process. It’s his third injury of the season, although two of those injuries have been freakish accidents – who else fractures their cheekbone in a match, and who else dislocates their elbow? Even the knee injury was unlucky (in my opinion anyway), so it’s nothing to do with how injury-prone he has become, nor is it anything to do with Tito Vilanova’s management. Typically, his injury came after 78 minutes of solid defensive work – get well soon Puyi!</p>
<p> </p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110053/javier-mascherano">Javier Mascherano</a></td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.2</i></td>
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<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>124</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>114</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>92%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>7.0</i></b></span>
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<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">An intelligent performance from the Argentine, who made the joint-highest number of interceptions from his position in central defense. Whether this means that Mascherano is good enough at reading the game to make up for Song’s questionable positioning remains to be seen, but it’s a sign that Mascherano is starting to improve as a defensive leader. Not only that, but with Carles Puyol in the side as cover, it allows El Jeficito to move into midfield more often to help dictate the game – as his passing total suggests. Just a shame that Puyol’s ruled out until December...</p>
<p> </p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><span>Jordi Alba</span></td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.8</i></td>
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<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>103</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>82</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>95%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><i><b>7.5</b></i></span>
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<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">At the start of the season, we were all remarking about how brilliant Jordi Alba was and how quickly he had settled into the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> system. Then he made one mistake, Adriano took his place and scored a couple of goals. All of a sudden, the Brazilian was the undisputed number one at left-back, but now Jordi Alba has recovered from the flu, we have been reminded of the Spaniard’s talents, with Tuesday’s match further proof of his immense potential. He was excellent at the back, won fouls for his teammates and created the odd chance as well. Will he start the Clasico? I think it’s touch-and-go at this stage, but either way, left-back is looking one of our strongest positions.</p>
<p> </p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><span>Sergio Busquets</span></td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.2</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>88</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>154</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>143</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>96%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>6</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><i><b>8.5</b></i></span>
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</div>
<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Busquets dominated the midfield alongside his usual partner in crime, Xavi Hernández, making over 140 passes, but also contributing with the highest number of tackles. Busi also made the joint-highest number of interceptions, boasted an incredibly high pass completion rate and he also won four fouls (another team-high). Normally, he would lose marks for the red card, but I still cannot quite fathom why the referee made the decision he did.</p>
<p> </p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Cesc Fàbregas</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.3</i></td>
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<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>72</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>81</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>69</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>91%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>1/1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>7.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It was another good performance and clear indication – as if Saturday’s brace was not enough – that he has rediscovered his shooting boots. Those goals bring confidence, and this confidence brings general good play. His link-up play looks "crisper" if there is such a word; while he was brutally clinical in front of goal (one shots, one goal). The only worry is that he commits more turnovers than Andrés Iniesta, but can you leave him out after two great performances?</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Xavi Hernández</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.6</i></td>
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<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>151</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>140</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>96%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>0/0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>8.0</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Quite simply, Xavi is a machine. He didn’t quite top the pile in terms of passes this time round, but his contribution was key to Barcelona’s victory. The only question ahead of the Clasico is who will partner Xavi in midfield? Cesc Fàbregas or Andrés Iniesta?</p>
<p> </p>
</div>
</td>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Alexis Sanchez</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.0</i></td>
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<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>55</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>43</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>86%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>3/1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>7.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Sanchez was up against it from the word go given the aggressive nature of Benifca’s gameplan, but he held his own against some truly thuggish behaviour from the hosts and even found time to grab his first goal of the season. With Pedro faltering, it was vital that Alexis delivered, and to his credit he did. The goal itself was a real poacher’s effort, and while much was made about the Chilean strength/dribbling skills when he signed, it’s clear one of his greatest traits is his ability to be in the right place at the right time. Whether that’s making a smart run free of the last defender, or arriving late into the area, Sanchez has the potential to become a great goal-scorer; let’s hope he continues in that vein on Sunday.</p>
<p> </p>
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</tr>
</tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi" class="sbn-auto-link">Lionel Messi</a></td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.7</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>75</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>84%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>3/2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>9.0</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Food for thought: <span>Wayne Rooney</span> lays on two assists against CFR Cluj for Robin Van Persie, and is lavished with praise from all sections of the media. Lionel Messi lays on two assists for his teammates against better opposition, and some people criticise his lack of goals? His passing was far more accurate on Tuesday, he had fewer shots, committed fewer turnovers, completed a number of dribbles and Messi even won a couple of headers – testing the keeper with one of those efforts. It was a fantastic performance, which should serve as good preparation for the Clasico ahead.</p>
<p> </p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Pedro Rodriguez</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>6.9</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>82</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>59</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>47</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>87%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>1/1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>5</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>6.0</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Usually I find ways to defend Pedro, but this was a sub-par performance from the Spaniard and as a result, he may find his place in the starting XI under threat. Booked (perhaps harshly) for diving, Pedro struggled to really get into the game, giving the ball away a number of times, and strangely enough, Pedro also failed to win a foul in his 82 minutes on the pitch.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Andrés Iniesta</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.1</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>18</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>38</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>35</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>97%</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>N/A</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It’s nice to see Iniesta back on the field, but after Puyol’s injury, the action really died down so it would be unfair to rate his performance.</p>
<p> </p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><span>Alex Song</span></td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>6.3</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>12</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>17</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>16</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>100%</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>N/A</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Alex Song replaced the injured Carles Puyol and made one interception in his time on the field – but that’s not enough to warrant a full rating.</p>
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa">David Villa</a></td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>6.6</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>8</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>7</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>5</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>100%</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>N/A</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">El Guaje played eight minutes and only made seven touches of the ball in that time – not enough for a rating.</p>
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">The Team</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.2</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>976</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>93%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>8/5</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>17</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Aerial Battles Won</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>50%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won/Committed</span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b>23/14</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>8.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">A comfortable victory for the team, arguably a far easier victory than many of us expected,. Of course, Benfica still had their chances, but resorted to long shots for the most part and failed to really get in close to test Victor Valdes. The team conserved energy ahead of the weekend's crunch encounter with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a>, it's just a shame that Carles Puyol couldn't complete the 90 minutes.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><span>Tito Vilanova</span></td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.5</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div class="statcont">
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>7.0</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">It was a strong selection from Tito, one that paid off handsomely. However, it's hard to really tell whether this was a successful game without seeing the result of the weekend's match as well. My only criticism is that Puyol shouldn't have completed more than an hour.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody>
<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">MOTM - Messi</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>53%</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span style="float: right;" class="statwords"><b><i>Messi</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p style="font-size: 12px;" class="MsoNormal">With no-one else really offering any substantial competition, Messi ran away with yet another MOTM award, and deservedly so given his two assists.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2012/10/5/3459138/uefa-champions-league-sl-benfica-0-2-fc-barcelona-player-ratingsArron Duckling2012-10-02T22:58:55+02:002012-10-02T22:58:55+02:00UCL: Benfica 0-2 Barcelona: Match Review
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/kIQm_KVK5Eg_cSh-_JmPGGoN3RQ=/42x48:968x665/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/474979/136081155.1349211424.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Ramos - Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Barcelona ran out comfortable 2-0 winners against Benfica at the Estadio da Luz on Tuesday night with goals from Alexis Sanchez and Cesc Fabregas securing the three points. However, the victory was marred by a horrific injury suffered by Carles Puyol and the contentious red card shown to Sergio Busquets</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> ran out comfortable 2-0 winners against Benfica at the Estadio da Luz on Tuesday night with goals from Alexis Sanchez and <span>Cesc Fabregas</span> securing the three points. However, the victory was marred by a horrific injury suffered by <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110856/carles-puyol">Carles Puyol</a> and the contentious red card shown to <span>Sergio Busquets</span>.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<table class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205"></td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Benfica</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Barcelona</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Possession</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>21%</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>79%</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Total Shots</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>10</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>8</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Shots on Target</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>7</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>5</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Pass Accuracy</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>70%</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>93%</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Fouls</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>23</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>14</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Offsides</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>0</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>3</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Yellow Cards</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>4</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>2</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Red Cards</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>0</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>1</b></p>
<p> </p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Bearing in mind there’s a Clasico on Sunday, <span>Tito Vilanova</span> fielded a surprisingly strong XI with Carles Puyol returning to the starting line-up just two days after returning to training. Puyol is a warrior, but many were concerned about his fitness ahead of such a pivotal match. What if he were to suffer another injury, leaving us with <span>Alex Song</span> at the back for the game against Real Madrid? Elsewhere, Xavi started alongside Cesc Fàbregas in midfield while <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa">David Villa</a> had to settle for a place on the bench as Tito opted for the same attack that started against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/sevilla">Sevilla</a>. Would Barcelona get the three points they needed to keep their spot at the top of the group following Celtic’s 3-2 over Spartak Moscow?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona started the match brightly and kept possession for the first couple of minutes of the match, although Benfica did threaten on the counter-attack with two shots from Bruno Cesar – the first of which was parried by Victor Valdés, and the second which was blocked by Sergio Busquets. However, they made nowhere near the same impact as Barcelona did with their opening attack.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Cesc Fàbregas was involved in the build-up, passing the ball to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> on the left-hand side of the Benfica area, and the Argentine dropped a shoulder, accelerated away from a defender and fired a ball into the area. Who would be in the area to meet it? None other than the Chilean, Alexis Sanchez. It was a good run from Alexis, a fantastic cross to find that run from Messi and a good all-round team goal. Six minutes in and Barcelona were ahead.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Benfica came close to an instant equaliser through Lima’s powerful shot, but Victor Valdés – who was having a great game in goal – made a good save to keep Jorge Jesus’ side at bay. Lionel Messi was the next to have a shot on goal, directing an effort with his favoured left-foot, but Artur Moraes did exceptionally well to get down and tip his effort round the post. Barcelona also had another chance to extend their lead through the scorer of the opener – Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean had made a great run and was picked out beautifully by a perfectly-weighted long ball, but he fired the shot over the bar and with that went Barcelona’s best chance at a second before the half-time interval.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Benfica made one change at the break, replacing Bruno Cesar with the veteran (and former <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/granada">Granada</a> midfielder) <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110659/carlos-martins">Carlos Martins</a>. They had played well in the first half, but they were struggling to capitalise on their chances and Barcelona were making them pay. Similar to Saturday’s match, Barcelona scored soon after the restart with Cesc Fàbregas on the score-sheet for the third time in four days. It was another good finish from the Spaniard, but this time round it was all about the assist from Lionel Messi. The Argentine was relatively quiet in the first half – assist for the opener aside – but he burst into life, charging past a couple of Benfica defenders before slipping the ball through to an unmarked Fàbregas. Much like his second on Saturday, Cesc calmly slotted past the keeper and Barcelona had a little bit of breathing room. Sure, Benfica were causing a couple of problems, but nothing too dangerous; the question was when would Tito start to make changes with the Clasico in mind?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">You got the feeling that this was almost like a formal training session for the team; they were keeping possession for fun, raising the tempo when necessary to create chances and keep Benfica at bay. Lionel Messi – who was thriving in a more creative role – played a brilliant pass through to Pedro, but his touch evaded him in front of goal, and while Messi took over his shot was blocked.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Tito made his first change with around twenty minutes left to play, Andrés Iniesta took the field with Cesc Fàbregas making way, but it seems rather inconsequential as Carles Puyol suffered what looked to be a terrible, terrible injury just minutes later. Leaping up for a header, as per usual, Puyol landed heavily on his arm, and well, let’s just say it didn’t look right. Puyol was in massive pain, Sanchez looked queasy and everyone looked visibly shaken. It was the last thing Tito would have wanted, but at this point the first concern is with Puyi’s well-being. Get well soon Capitan!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">And then it somehow got worse. Alex Song and David Villa had taken the field for Puyol and Pedro, though neither were involved in the next talking point – a contentious red card shown to Sergio Busquets. Looking back, I actually have no clue what Busi did to warrant a card of any colour – at worst it was a foul for a high foot. Regardless, the incompetent referee brandished a red card, and I’m certain that Barcelona will appeal.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">There was still time for Nemanja Matic to elbow <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves">Dani Alves</a>, potentially injuring the Brazilian. However, there were no repercussions for his blatantly violent play, which basically sums up the game. A good three points, but as Bostjan said in the Game Thread, at what cost?</p>
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<p><iframe src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/embeddedform?formkey=dGJxQmdyNGlNSm5sM1E4WEpwUUhXSHc6MA" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" frameborder="0" height="2285" width="760">Loading...</iframe></p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2010-2011-champions-league/2012/10/2/3445550/uefa-champions-league-sl-benfica-0-2-fc-barcelona-match-reviewArron Duckling2012-10-02T19:38:50+02:002012-10-02T19:38:50+02:00SL Benfica vs FC Barcelona: Live Game Thread
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<figcaption>Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno - Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Live match thread for the Group Stage game between SL Benfica and FC Barcelona.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">Champions League: Group Stage; Match Two<br>Kickoff: Tuesday, 2 October 2012; 20:45 CET<br>Estádio da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal<br>Referee: Cüneyt Çakır</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" align="justify">Line-ups:</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" align="justify">SL Benfica (4-2-3-1): Artur Moraes; Maxi Pereira, Jardel, Ezequiel Garay, Lorenzo Melgarejo; Enzo Pérez, Nemanja Matić; Eduardo Salvio, Nicolás Gaitán, Bruno César; Lima</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" align="justify">Substitutes: Paulo Lopes, Miguel Vítor, André Almeida, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110659/carlos-martins">Carlos Martins</a>, Pablo Aimar, Rodrigo, Nolito</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" align="justify">FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> (4-3-3): Victor Valdes; <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves">Dani Alves</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110856/carles-puyol">Carles Puyol</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110053/javier-mascherano">Javier Mascherano</a>, <span>Jordi Alba</span>; <span>Sergio Busquets</span>, Xavi Hernandez, <span>Cesc Fabregas</span>; Alexis Sanchez, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, Pedro Rodriguez</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" align="justify">Substitutes: Jose Manuel Pinto, <span>Adriano Correia</span>, <span>Alex Song</span>, Sergi Roberto, Andres Iniesta, Cristian Tello, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa">David Villa</a></p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2012/10/2/3443918/uefa-champions-league-sl-benfica-vs-fc-barcelona-live-game-threadBostjan Cernensek2012-10-02T15:06:13+02:002012-10-02T15:06:13+02:00Predict The Score: Benfica vs Barcelona
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<figcaption>Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno - Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Predict the score of tonight's match between FC Barcelona and Benfica. Will the Blaugrana claim their sixth successive win in all competitions, or will Benfica extend their unbeaten run to seven matches?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">FC <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> take on SL Benfica tonight in what could prove to be the Blaugrana's toughest test of this season's group stage. Jorge Jesus' side were seeded in Pot Two for the draw, and therefore, the away match with Benfica is technically the toughest it's going to get, although I for one think that travelling to Russia will prove a far greater test for <span>Tito Vilanova's</span> team. Whatever the case, Benfica are not to be under-estimated and will be looking to exploit any complacency in the Barcelona ranks. Can they pull off an upset, or will Barca continue their recent run of good form?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Vote in our poll below to predict the result of tonight's match, and comment with your choice to be in with a chance of winning a prize at the season's end. Good luck!</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2012/10/2/3442872/uefa-champions-league-sl-benfica-vs-fc-barcelona-predict-the-scoreArron Duckling2012-10-01T23:17:16+02:002012-10-01T23:17:16+02:00UCL: SL Benfica vs FC Barcelona: Match Preview
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<figcaption>Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno - Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A preview of tomorrow's UEFA Champions League group stage match between FC Barcelona and SL Benfica. Who will emerge victorious in this battle between two Iberian powerhouses? </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> travel to Portugal tomorrow looking to extend their winning streak to six games, but will face difficult opposition from Liga Sagres leaders Benfica. Like Barcelona, Jorge Jesus’ side are unbeaten in domestic competition, although they are not 100% like the Blaugrana. Their Champions League campaign got off to a reasonable start, with a goalless draw against Celtic, but Benfica will need to step up their game if they wish to get anything from tomorrow’s encounter. On the other hand, with El Clasico on Sunday, <span>Tito Vilanova</span> may choose to rest some of his key players and if that is the case, then Benfica may fancy their chances at an upset. Will Barcelona claim a valuable three points, or will they suffer a slip-up before the Clasico?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>TEAM NEWS</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>BARCELONA </b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">After Saturday’s difficult win against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/sevilla">Sevilla</a>, Tito Vilanova has a number of difficult decisions to make with regards to team selection for tomorrow’s game. Clearly, <span>Alex Song</span> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110053/javier-mascherano">Javier Mascherano</a> are not the best centre-back pairing at the club, but they are virtually the only options, unless Tito chooses to restore <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110856/carles-puyol">Carles Puyol</a> to the starting XI (unlikely) or give <span>Marc Bartra</span> a run-out (arguably even less likely). Andrés Iniesta and Adriano have also travelled with the squad to Portugal and could see game-time, but can Tito afford to risk them? Thiago would have probably started tomorrow, <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2012/9/30/3430162/injury-report-thiago-injures-knee" target="_blank">but has been ruled out for two months</a>; could Sergi Roberto make a rare appearance? So many questions to be answered, and seemingly no right or wrong answer for each.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Victor Valdés will start in goal and he’ll be anxious to keep his first Champions League clean-sheet since March. Last season’s group-stage was turned out to be relatively easy work for the Blaugrana keepers who managed four clean sheets in the six matches, although at this stage, such a record appears to be out of reach.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Defensively, we could see <span>Martin Montoya</span> make his second start of the season after <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves">Dani Alves</a>’ less than impressive performance against Sevilla. In truth, it’s more likely that Alves would merely be resting for the Clasico, but it would be nice to think that Montoya has a chance to displace the Brazilian – provided that he plays well of course. It’s the lack of competition that breeds complacency, and as we well know, that complacency can lead to mistakes. In the centre of defense, Alex Song and Javier Mascherano should both start, although I suspect that both Carles Puyol and Bartra are in the running for Mascherano’s place. <span>Jordi Alba</span> should continue at left-back despite Adriano’s recovery.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span>Sergio Busquets</span> is the only option in defensive midfield, especially with Jonathan Dos Santos out-of-favour and it’s a similar story in central midfield. Xavi and Cesc Fàbregas started on Saturday, but with Thiago’s injury, they will probably start again tomorrow – despite the impending Clasico. Andrés Iniesta could feature at some stage, and most expect him to do so, but starting seems far too risky. Sergio Roberto is the only other option, though many think he’s unlikely start in such a high-pressure game. Tito could surprise us, but Benfica are not to be under-estimated and if the match goes to plan then Xavi and Cesc can be taken off once the match is out-of-reach.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">In attack, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> will start with two others for company – but who will Vilanova choose? <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa">David Villa</a> is in line for a start, although I suspect that Cristian Tello is also in contention, and neither player is renowned for playing on the right-hand side. Could Vilanova opt for a radical change, moving Messi back onto the right with Villa in the middle and Tello on the left? It’s possible, but I would bet on a frontline of Sanchez, Messi and Tello.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>BENFICA</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Jorge Jesus ruled last season’s joint-leading goal-scorer Oscar Cardozo out of tomorrow’s match, but his side did sign the man Cardozo tied with: Lima. The Brazilian is something of a late bloomer, but don’t let that fool you; he is an exceptional striker with a keen eye for goal. With three goals in his two appearances for Benfica, Lima is the man most likely to get the goals, but Benfica have other threats as well. From Nicolas Gaitan and Rodrigo to Nolito and Eduardo Salvio, Jorge Jesus has a plethora of options on the wing, and despite the sales of Javi Garcia and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/167659/axel-witsel">Axel Witsel</a>, they have a strong midfield as well. Former <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> centre-half Ezequiel Garay could be a weak-link in the Benfica backline, but he has improved hugely since his spell in the Spanish capital.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>FORM GUIDE</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona: LWWWWW</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Benfica: WWDDDW</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>LAST MEETING</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">FC Barcelona 2-0 SL Benfica – 5<sup>th</sup> April 2006 – UEFA Champions League</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Goals from Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto’o secured a 2-0 aggregate victory in the quarter-finals of their successful 2005-06 Champions League campaign. Of the XI that started on that night, only Victor Valdés is likely to start, while Carles Puyol and Andrés Iniesta could feature.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>LIKELY LINE-UPS</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">FC Barcelona (4-3-3): Valdés; Montoya, Song, Mascherano, Alba; Busquets, Cesc, Xavi; Sanchez, Messi, Tello</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">SL Benfica (4-2-3-1): Artur Moraes; Maxi Pereira, Garay, Jardel, Melgarejo; Matic, Perez; Gaitan, Aimar, Rodrigo; Lima</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>MATCH PREDICTION</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Once again, it’s going to be close, but morale is high and nothing less than a win will suffice heading into the Clasico: 3-1 Barcelona</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2012/10/1/3439822/uefa-champions-league-sl-benfica-vs-fc-barcelona-match-previewArron Duckling