Barca Blaugranes - UEFA Champions League: FC Barcelona vs Celtic: Full Match Coverage#GraciesTitohttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47187/barca-fave.png2012-10-25T21:21:57+02:00http://www.barcablaugranes.com/rss/stream/33063572012-10-25T21:21:57+02:002012-10-25T21:21:57+02:00UCL: Barcelona 2-1 Celtic: Player Ratings
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<figcaption>Jasper Juinen</figcaption>
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<p>A player-by-player breakdown of Barcelona's 2-1 home win over Celtic. With Lionel Messi having a rare off day, who would claim the MoTM award?</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"> </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>5.9</i></td>
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<td colspan="2" style="vertical-align: top; font-size: 12px;">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>90</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>16</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>9</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>100%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots Faced</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Saves Made</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>6.5</i></b></span>
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<p class="MsoNormal">A good performance in goal from Victor Valdés who seemingly cannot catch a lucky break. Even in a match like this, where he completed all of his passes and faced no shots on goal, Valdés managed to concede – to a Javier Mascherano own-goal. </p>
<p> </p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><span>Adriano Correia</span></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 colspan="2" style="vertical-align: top; font-size: 12px;">
<div class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>110</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>89</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>94%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>3</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>3</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>5/2</b></span>
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<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>7.5</i></b></span>
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<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">If you look up "versatile" in the dictionary, don’t be surprised when you see a picture of Adriano’s face staring right back at you (terrible pun intended). All joking aside, Adriano has proved himself to be a valuable member of the squad and if that means filling in at centre-half or right-back, then so be it. His cross for Jordi Alba’s winner was as brilliant as it was vital; a little more swerve and it would have evaded the Spaniard, a little less and it would have been intercepted, but he got it just right and well, the rest is history. Surprisingly enough, Adriano also registered the second-most shots on target of the night behind Lionel Messi but ahead of the entire Celtic team. Oh, and did anyone else notice how Adriano provided the pass to Lionel Messi in the build-up to the equaliser?</p>
<p> </p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><span>Marc Bartra</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>
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<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>60</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>45</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>93%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>5</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>3</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>5</b></span>
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<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>8.5</i></b></span>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Why on earth did Tito choose <span>Alex Song</span> at centre-half ahead of Marc Bartra? It’s a question that’s been bothering me for quite some time now, and after Bartra’s performance on Tuesday night, I wonder whether anyone can give me a reasonable answer. Bartra is younger than Alex Song, has played at centre-half longer than Alex Song – meaning he has more experience in that position – and crucially, he understands the system far better than the Cameroonian. Aside from set-pieces, Celtic barely threatened the <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> goal and one of the biggest reasons for this was Marc Bartra. With Gerard Piqué set to miss Saturday’s clash with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/rayo-vallecano" class="sbn-auto-link">Rayo Vallecano</a>, I can only pray that Tito sees sense and keeps Bartra in the line-up.</p>
<p> </p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110053/javier-mascherano" class="sbn-auto-link">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>6.1</i></td>
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<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>63</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>50</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>92%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>5</b></span>
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<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>6.5</i></b></span>
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<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Similar to Valdés in the Barcelona goal, it appears as though Javier Mascherano just cannot catch a break. Suspended for the next league game courtesy of two extremely questionable refereeing decisions, Mascherano’s appeal against that red card has been turned down – all this in the same week that he scores another own goal. <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110330/georgios-samaras" class="sbn-auto-link">Georgios Samaras</a>’ header may have been destined for goal, but the deflection off Mascherano completely bamboozled Valdés and caused the goal. Aside from that, Mascherano was largely untested by the Celtic attack – not that he needed to be at his best with Bartra in support. </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>8.2</i></td>
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<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>123</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>107</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>95%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1/1</b></span>
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<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><i><b>7.5</b></i></span>
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</div>
<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A man-of-the-match performance from Jordi Alba, whose last-minute goal was absolutely crucial – not just in securing the three points, but also in boosting morale at the club. It has made for agonizing viewing, but the elation these late goals provoke out of the players – and out of the fans – far eclipses that of a Manita, or a comfortable 2-0 win. Scoring a winner in the 54<sup>th</sup> minute for example is all well and good, but scoring that winner in the final minute, you must feel as though you are on top of the world – invincible even. However, there was more to Alba’s performance than that goal; over-lapping on the left, Alba posed more of a threat than Alexis Sanchez, and even then he didn’t neglect his defensive duties. Just like Alves was arguably the best signing in the <span>Pep Guardiola</span> era, Jordi Alba might just turn out to be the best signing under Tito Vilanova.</p>
<p> </p>
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</td>
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<tr style="height: 50px;">
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Alex Song</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>6.5</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>110</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>99</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>96%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>6</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><i><b>7.0</b></i></span>
</div>
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<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Get ready to savour this moment folks – with Alex Song in his natural defensive midfield position I can finally write something nice about the Cameroonian. The only trouble is, no matter how well Song plays at pivote, he will never displace <span>Sergio Busquets</span>. Regardless, Song played well on Tuesday, stopping a number of Celtic attacks in their infancy and keeping the ball rolling in the middle of the park. It’s true, he does lack the finesse of a Sergio Busquets, or even of a <span>Yaya Toure</span>, but he’s a good player in his own right, but please, for the love of all that’s good in the world, just keep him away from centre-back.</p>
<p> </p>
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<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>8.1</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>162</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>142</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>92%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>3/2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>7</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>8.0</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A majestic showing from the Best Player in Europe, who, in my opinion at least, was the best player on the field Tuesday night. Virtually every noteworthy chance created by the Blaugrana involved Andrés Iniesta at some stage and with Lionel Messi a little way off his best, it was absolutely critical that Iniesta delivered the goods to ensure that Barca avoided what could have been a humiliating upset. Iniesta took his goal exceptionally well after playing a nice one-two with Xavi, slotting the ball past <span>Fraser Forster</span> with ease courtesy of a deft first touch which set the shot up nicely. His delightful scoop pass deserves a mention as well – if it wasn’t for Forster’s spectacular save, Iniesta’s 20:20 vision could well have sewn up the three points well before injury time.</p>
<p> </p>
</div>
</td>
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<tr style="height: 50px;">
<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>7.5</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>198</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>184</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>97%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>3/0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>8</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>7.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Record-breaking stuff from our midfield maestro who attempted a staggering 184 passes on Tuesday night (according to WhoScored.com). That stat varies depending on where you read, with some claiming that Xavi completed more passes than Celtic did in the entire match, but what’s important is that Xavi managed to create a whole heap of chances with his record-breaking tally of passes. What’s more, Xavi also kept his accuracy phenomenally high at 97% – <i>La M</i><i>áquina</i>, Xavi Hernández!</p>
<p> </p>
</div>
</td>
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</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;">Alexis Sanchez</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>5.8</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>80</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>63</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>51</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>82%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>2/1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>5</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>6.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Now we get to the disappointing section of today’s ratings – the two wingers. Thankfully, we have Messi in the middle to brighten things up, but there is no escaping the fact that both Alexis and Pedro were poor on Tuesday. Sanchez did have a couple of chances to score, one in the early stages of the match, and another sandwiched between a couple of Fraser Forster’s saves against Messi, but aside from that, he contributed very little to Barcelona’s attack. Sanchez’ presence in the side pushed Pedro out to the left – a position where he has struggled in the past – but all would have been forgiven if he had simply done something, anything to help the cause. Alexis did not stretch the play – which would have been quite useful against such a compact defense – and as a result, I struggle to see how he will get into the side if/when Barcelona progress to the latter stages. At this point in time, I’m simply counting the days until <span>Isaac Cuenca</span> returns.</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;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">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>7.4</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>111</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>87</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>85%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>8/3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>5</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>7.0</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There were reports at the weekend suggesting that Tito Vilanova was looking to rest Lionel Messi for against Deportivo, but due to the frantic nature of the match, Messi stayed on and completed the full 90 minutes – which is perhaps why Barcelona suffered on Tuesday night. Granted, Messi did play a part in the equalising goal and he could have helped himself to a hat-trick if it wasn’t for some wayward finishing/heroic goalkeeping from Fraser Forster, but this wasn’t a classic performance from La Pulga. While threatening from dead-ball situations, Messi gave the ball away often and couldn’t establish a rhythm up against a resolute Celtic defense.</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>6.1</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>76</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>81</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>71</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>92%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1/0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>6.0</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I wasn’t particularly nice about Alexis, so it’s only fair I go equally hard on Pedro for his lack-lustre performance on the left-wing. While he got involved in the match far more than <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa" class="sbn-auto-link">David Villa</a> did against Deportivo, Pedro simply could not impact the proceedings anywhere near as much as Tito would have hoped. Considering this is the very same man who cannot stop scoring for the Spanish national team, this really was a disappointing showing.</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;">Cristian Tello</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>6.1</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>14</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>24</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>18</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>83%</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>6.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">A solid cameo performance from Cristian Tello who offers so much off the bench – especially against teams with an approach like Celtic. First of all, Tello has pace, which is the last thing defenders want to come up against after 75+ minutes of backs to the wall defending, and secondly, Tello can be a good finisher – well, some of the time anyway. His sheer presence on the field has to create a little more space for the Barca attack, which is always a plus point.</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;">David Villa</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>6.8</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>10</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>8</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>5</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>80%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>2/0</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>6.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Just like Cristian Tello, opposition defenders must dread seeing David Villa come off the bench – as all their hard-work could be undone if they give El Guaje even an inch of space. Villa only had eight touches of the ball on Tuesday and he <i>still</i> came close to scoring. Now, if he could only have the same impact in the starting XI...</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>7.0</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>984</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>93%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>28/10</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>24</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Aerial Battles Won</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>42%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won/Committed</span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b>11/10</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>6.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Despite claiming the three points, it was a far from vintage display by the Blaugrana. Yes, Celtic are better than many pundits made them out to be – every match in the UEFA Champions League is a battle – but it should have been easier than this. Now, I’m not asking for a Manita, but can we please refrain from leaving it so late? I don’t think my heart can take much more of the strain.</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>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>7.1</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont">
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>8.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">An odd match for Tito, as there were a couple of choice selection decisions – why was <span>Martin Montoya</span> dropped, and why was Cesc left out of the starting XI are two questions that could be asked – although both Adriano and Xavi played very well indeed. Maybe the substitutes could have been made earlier, but again, it all turned out well in the end.</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;">MOTM - Jordi Alba</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>41%</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2">
<div class="statcont" style="font-size: 12px;">
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says</b></i></span><span class="statwords" style="float: right;"><b><i>Bartra</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 12px;">Jordi Alba claimed his first Barca Blaugranes MoTM award with the goal undoubtedly swaying the community to vote for our marauding left-back. After a string of great performances, it's a well-deserved award, although I would have voted for Bartra.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2012/10/25/3554190/uefa-champions-league-fc-barcelona-2-1-celtic-player-ratingsArron Duckling2012-10-23T22:46:37+02:002012-10-23T22:46:37+02:00UCL: Barcelona 2-1 Celtic: Match Review
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qRY7t5keGZtbmCdnkZNbs0BDlYI=/0x277:3037x2302/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/1883305/154616698.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Ramos</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A lack-lustre Barcelona left it late to secure their 100th UEFA Champions League win as a late goal from Jordi Alba dashed Celtic's dreams of an upset. The Hoops took the lead through a Javier Mascherano own-goal (which may be credited to Georgios Samaras), but Barcelona levelled through Andres Iniesta and just when it looked as though they would have to settle for a point, Jordi Alba struck in the final minute of injury-time.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">A lack-lustre <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> left it late to secure their 100th UEFA Champions League win as a late goal from <span>Jordi Alba</span> ensured that the Blaugrana maintained their 100% group stage record. The Hoops took the lead through a <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110053/javier-mascherano">Javier Mascherano</a> own-goal (which may be credited to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110330/georgios-samaras">Georgios Samaras</a>), but Barcelona levelled through Andres Iniesta and just when it looked as though they would have to settle for a point, Jordi Alba struck in the final minute of injury-time.</p>
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" class="MsoNormalTable"><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 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Barcelona</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Celtic</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Possession</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>82%</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>18%</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><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 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>28</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>6</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><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 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>10</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>1</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><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 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>93%</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>75%</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Fouls</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>10</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>11</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Offsides</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>1</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>1</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><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 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>2</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>0</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><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 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>0</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>0</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span>Tito Vilanova</span> made five changes from Saturday’s epic victory over Deportivo as Xavi Hernández, Alexis Sanchez, Adriano Correia and Pedro Rodriguez were all restored to the starting XI, while <span>Marc Bartra</span> started in central defense for the first time under Tito Vilanova. With <span>Sergio Busquets</span> missing out through suspension, <span>Alex Song</span> filled in at pivote. Players in their natural positions, a bona-fide centre-half in defense; surely the Blaugrana would benefit and record their 100<sup>th</sup> UEFA Champions League win?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona started well and could have taken an early lead through Alexis Sanchez, but the Chilean dragged his right-footed shot wide of Fraster Forster’s far post. Marc Bartra also had an early chance, forcing a good save out of the young Englishman with a header from point-blank range, but it wasn’t exactly a vintage start from Barca. Sure, Celtic were sitting deep and making life difficult for the Catalans, but the majority of teams visiting the Camp Nou play in a similar fashion – and still lose. What made Celtic any different? Well, it appeared as though they had lady luck on their side as they took the lead with what was probably their first chance of the night.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">The delivery was superb as Charlie Mulgrew swung in a tantalising cross from the right-hand side and there to meet it was the tallest player on the field – Georgios Samaras. In truth, he didn’t connect particularly cleanly with his header, but that wasn’t to matter as the ball ricocheted off Javier Mascherano’s back and spun into the back of the net. Against all the odds, Celtic were ahead at the Camp Nou.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">With a goal advantage, Celtic dropped a little deeper, inviting Barcelona forward, but the Blaugrana were having difficultly creating chances from open play. Lennon had sent out his team to narrow the field, and Barcelona’s wing-play had been particularly disappointing with Jordi Alba the only bright point out wide. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> went close on two separate occasions with free-kicks, curling two efforts just over, but still, Barcelona were creating very little from open play. With Celtic defending so well, it was going to take something special for Barca to get that equaliser they so desperately wanted – and special is what we got.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Lionel Messi started the move from the right-hand side, finding the run of Andrés Iniesta with a perfectly weighted pass. Iniesta could have played the return to Messi, or he could have turned towards goal, but that would have been the easy way out. That would have been what a <i>normal </i>player would have done, but as we well know, Iniesta is not your ordinary footballer – he’s the Best Player in Europe, and he thrives in pulling off the spectacular. Moving the ball on to his midfield partner Xavi, Iniesta then proceeded to run into space and Xavi found him with an equally brilliant pass. However, Iniesta’s work was not yet over – exhibiting exquisite technique, Andrés controlled Xavi’s pass and slotted the ball past Forster to make it 1-1.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Messi could have put Barca ahead with the final kick of the first-half but somewhat surprisingly the Argentine dragged his shot well wide of the target and the two sides went in at the break level.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Neither side made a change at the interval, and the match continued in a similar vein to the first-half. Barcelona dominated possession, but were creating very little in the way of clear-cut chances, while Celtic continued to sit deep and look for an opportunity to strike on the counter. The visitors could have taken the lead (again) as Barcelona failed to clear a corner, but just as Barca couldn’t clear their lines, Celtic failed to capitalise on the chance. Marc Bartra stopped a dangerous looking counter in full flow with a good block tackle, but as the half progressed, the momentum started to build and Barca really started to take control.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Messi tested Forster with a couple of straight-forward long-range shots, almost as though he was testing the water and Barcelona started to be a little more adventurous in their build-up. A nice interchange on the right-hand side resulted in a low cross being fizzled across goal and there to meet it was Lionel Messi, but <span>Fraser Forster</span> got across to deny the Argentine with a jaw-dropping save and repeated that feat a few minutes later, stopping Messi’s header after a delightful scooped pass split the Celtic defense.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">It was time for a change; Cristian Tello took the field, replacing the ineffective Pedro as Barcelona pushed forward in search of a winner and he was soon joined by <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa">David Villa</a>, with Alexis Sanchez the man to make way for El Guaje. Could Villa improve his formidable scoring record off the bench by grabbing the winner despite joining the action with less than ten minutes remaining? He certainly came the closest – Barca were pouring forward, Celtic were tiring with every passing second and El Guaje pounced, but his left-footed shot hit the outside of the post and rebounded away. Surely Barca would have to settle for a single point? Not if Jordi Alba could help it. The left-back got on the scoresheet on Saturday and he was at it again in the final minute of injury time, tapping in Adriano’s cross at the far post. Did Barcelona deserve it? Maybe, maybe not, but we’ll take it. Next up is a trip to Madrid where Barca will face <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/rayo-vallecano">Rayo Vallecano</a> on Saturday.</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2012/10/23/3544830/uefa-champions-league-fc-barcelona-2-1-celtic-match-reviewArron Duckling2012-10-23T19:45:55+02:002012-10-23T19:45:55+02:00FC Barcelona vs Celtic FC: Live Game Thread
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<figcaption>Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno</figcaption>
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<p>Live game thread for the Champions League Group Stage match between FC Barcelona and Celtic FC.</p> <p align="center">UEFA Champions League: Group Stage; Match Three<br>Kickoff: Tuesday, 23 October 2012; 20:45 CET<br>Camp Nou, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a><br>Referee: Gianluca Rocchi</p>
<p align="justify">Line-ups:</p>
<p align="justify">FC Barcelona (4-3-3): Victor Valdes; <span>Adriano Correia</span>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110053/javier-mascherano">Javier Mascherano</a>, <span>Marc Bartra</span>, <span>Jordi Alba</span>; <span>Alex Song</span>, Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez; 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 align="justify">Substitutes: Jose Manuel Pinto, <span>Martin Montoya</span>, Jonathan Dos Santos, Sergi Roberto, <span>Cesc Fabregas</span>, Cristian Tello, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa">David Villa</a></p>
<p align="justify">Celtic FC (4-2-3-1): <span>Fraser Forster</span>; Mikael Lustig, Kelvin Wilson, Efe Ambrose, Emilio Izaguirre; Charlie Mulgrew, Victor Wanyama; <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110330/georgios-samaras">Georgios Samaras</a>, Scott Brown, Joe Ledley; Gary Hooper</p>
<p align="justify">Substitutes: Łukasz Załuska, Adam Matthews, Thomas Rogne, Beram Kayal, Kris Commons, Miku, James Forrest</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2012/10/23/3543730/uefa-champions-league-fc-barcelona-vs-celtic-fc-live-game-threadBostjan Cernensek2012-10-23T12:18:13+02:002012-10-23T12:18:13+02:00UCL: Barcelona vs Celtic: Predict the Score
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<figcaption>David Ramos</figcaption>
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<p>Predict the score for tonight's UEFA Champions League match between FC Barcelona and Celtic. Will the Blaugrana be able to claim their 100th Champions League win with a victory of front of the Camp Nou faithful?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">FC <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> take on Celtic tonight looking for their 100th UEFA Champions League win overall, and their third (out of a possible three) in this season's group stage. However, in their way are current SPL champions Celtic, coached by former Northern Ireland international Neil Lennon. The Hoops are not expected to take any points from this encounter at the Camp Nou - very few teams are able to avoid defeat when they travel to Catalunya - but if we know anything, it's that there are no easy games in the Champions League. Unless you're facing Nordsjælland.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Anyway, it's time for you to predict the score of tonight's match. After no-one was able to predict Saturday's 4-5 victory over Deportivo La Coruna, it would be nice if at least one member of the community could get tonight's result correct. Vote in our poll below and comment with your prediction to register your prediction. Best of luck!</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2012/10/23/3542304/uefa-champions-league-fc-barcelona-vs-celtic-predict-the-scoreArron Duckling2012-10-22T23:46:22+02:002012-10-22T23:46:22+02:00UCL: Barcelona vs Celtic: Match Preview
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<figcaption>David Ramos</figcaption>
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<p>A preview of tomorrow's UEFA Champions League group stage match between FC Barcelona and Celtic. Can the Blaugrana make it three wins from three, or will Celtic be able to shock the world? Read our preview to find out.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">FC <a style="text-align: justify;" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> are in UEFA Champions League action tomorrow night looking for their 100</span><sup style="text-align: justify;">th</sup><span style="text-align: justify;"> win in the competition as they host SPL champions Celtic at the Camp Nou. The Blaugrana are heavy favourites for tomorrow’s encounter, although based on current form it could be a close-fought match between two good sides. Granted, Barcelona are streets ahead of their visitors quality-wise, but with nothing to lose and everything to gain, Celtic are not going to go down without a fight.</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">The Bhoys are dead-certs to retain their title this season following the demotion of their great rivals Rangers, who fell into the fourth tier as a result of their drastic money troubles. While on one hand that means that our opponents are often unchallenged in domestic action, it does mean that they can focus all their attentions on European competition – should Hoops boss Neil Lennon choose to do so anyway. However, that wasn’t the case on Saturday as Celtic fielded a strong XI in their 5-0 demolition of St. Mirren. Will they be able to pull off an upset tomorrow?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>TEAM NEWS</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>BARCELONA</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span>Tito Vilanova</span> was hoping to have Gerard Piqué available for selection heading into the match, but Geri hasn’t made the squad and therefore his comeback has been postponed – most likely until Barca make the trip to Madrid to face Rayo at the weekend. Therefore, Barcelona will still be without their first-choice backline and that is something Celtic will be looking to take advantage of. On the other hand, Barca will be keen to prove a point after the weekend’s drama and it may not matter who is in defense. Whatever the case, Tito has virtually the same squad to choose his starting XI from, with the exception of <span>Sergio Busquets</span> who is suspended after his red card against Benfica.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">In goal, Victor Valdés will start in spite of his error on Saturday; although that’s something we have grown accustomed to in recent times. The error itself wasn’t quite as bad as it was made to seem – given the design of modern footballs it’s very likely that the ball swerved in flight, which must be difficult for a keeper to judge.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Moving to the defense, <span>Martin Montoya</span> will continue at right-back with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110053/javier-mascherano">Javier Mascherano</a> at centre-half. However, the other two places are very much up for grabs. With Busquets suspended, it’s possible that <span>Alex Song</span> could fill in at pivote, although looking at Vilanova’s squad that seems unlikely at present. If Song does play in midfield it appears as though Adriano would be favourite to play at centre-half despite <span>Marc Bartra</span>’s presence in the squad. Personally, I would like to see Bartra given a chance, but he surely would have featured by now if he was in Tito’s plans? If Song starts at centre-half there will be a battle for the final defensive spot – <span>Jordi Alba</span> or Adriano? With a goal (and an own goal to his name), Alba looks to have the advantage.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">In midfield, Song could start at pivote, but Jonathan Dos Santos and Sergi Roberto made the squad, providing Vilanova with a difficult choice. JDS could be given a shot – he did look impressive in pre-season – although I would opt for Sergi Roberto who has been excellent for the Blaugrana in the Champions League. Xavi should start after spending the majority of Saturday’s match on the bench, and he’s likely to be partnered by the man he replaced against Deportivo: Cesc Fàbregas. Cesc was utterly sublime on Saturday and should be given a chance to extend his recent run of good form tomorrow.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Finally, in attack, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> will start, presumably with Pedro Rodriguez and Alexis Sanchez in support. Pedro only played a cameo against Depor, while Alexis missed out altogether, which is why I think the two will start against Celtic. Conversely, Cristian Tello played well against Deportivo as well, so it’s possible that he could challenge Sanchez for that final attacking berth.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>CELTIC</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Neil Lennon has a full compliment to choose from tomorrow, and it’s likely that he will stick with his usual team in an attempt to pull off the upset. <span>Fraser Forster</span> will be in goal, with Charlie Mulgrew the stand-out defender – in my opinion at least. At full-back, Emilio Izaguirre is a tricky customer and he could push for a recall after being left on the bench for Saturday’s landslide win, although it depends on Celtic’s gameplan. If they want to absorb pressure and strike on the counter, then Izaguirre is the obvious choice, but if they want to shut up shop and hope for the best, they may prefer to leave the Honduran on the bench, or push him further forward. Victor Wanyama has been an excellent signing for Lennon’s side and the Kenyan is good enough to disrupt Barcelona’s rhythm in the centre of the field. With Busquets suspended, Tito may be tempted to field Song in midfield purely to counter-act Wanyama, although that doesn’t quite seem the "Barcelona way". Gary Hooper will start in attack and the Englishman did score at the weekend, but he doesn’t quite seem as threatening as an Emenike, or a Lima – both of whom Barcelona dealt with reasonably well.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>FORM GUIDE</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona: WWWWDW</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Celtic: WWWWWW</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>LAST MEETING</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">FC Barcelona 1-0 Celtic – 4<sup>th</sup> March 2008 – UEFA Champions League</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">An early goal from Xavi secured victory for the Blaugrana who progressed 4-2 on aggregate in this knockout tie. The match however did not go entirely to plan as a young Lionel Messi was forced off through injury.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>LIKELY LINE-UPS</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona (4-3-3): Valdés; Montoya, Mascherano, Song, Alba; Sergi Roberto, Xavi, Fàbregas; Pedro, Messi, Tello</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Celtic (4-4-2): Forster; Matthews, Mulgrew, Wilson, Lustig; Forrest, Wanyama, Brown, Izaguirre; Hooper, Miku</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>MATCH PREDICTION</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona should win, although Celtic will put up a good fight. Barca to win by a couple of goals – 2-0 is my guess.</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2012/10/22/3540412/uefa-champions-league-fc-barcelona-vs-celtic-match-previewArron Duckling