Barca Blaugranes - UEFA Champions League: Manchester City vs FC Barcelona: Full Match Coverage#GraciesTitohttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47187/barca-fave.png2014-02-20T04:27:19+01:00http://www.barcablaugranes.com/rss/stream/51856872014-02-20T04:27:19+01:002014-02-20T04:27:19+01:00City vs. Barcelona: Q&A with Warren Barton
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<figcaption>Clive Brunskill</figcaption>
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<p>We spoke with FOX Sports' Warren Barton today to get his thoughts on Barcelona's 2-0 triumph over Manchester City in the Champions League. Read on to hear what the former England international had to say about this "clash of titans."</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><i>You expected Barcelona to win over two legs, but you said maybe <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://bitterandblue.sbnation.com/">Manchester City</a> would win this one game. Does this mean you think there's essentially no chance that City would progress?</i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Warren Barton:</b> I think it's gonna be very difficult. Just looking at Barcelona now, with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> fit... maybe 5 weeks ago, I would have backed City at home, maybe with <span>Sergio Aguero</span> being in the equation for Manchester City. But Barcelona now are quite driven. I think they want to try and get back to a final. The players, particularly Xavi, are maybe coming into the last season or two seasons of their Barcelona careers. I think that point of view is what some of the players have. Maybe with what happened last year against Bayern Munich, they're really driven to go all the way this year. At Camp Nou, they're an outstanding team, their record is excellent.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Is this a statement game? <span>Arsene Wenger</span> said City were "slight favorites." <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/epl/teams/jose-mourinho">Jose Mourinho</a> said this was the "worst Barcelona of many, many years." Was this an answer to that?</i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>WB: </b>Yes, there's no doubt. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110855/gerard-pique">Gerard Pique</a> came out and said that they lost that fear factor, which they had. They lost 7-0 on aggregate against Bayern Munich. So they lost that fear factor, but there's nothing better than for world class players to have that extra incentive. It may be that they were so dominant and so successful that they got somewhat complacent in their play. From that point of view, Mourinho will always go against Barca, because he was a coach for <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a>. That's Mourinho's mentality, that's how he is. But I still think when you've got Messi, Neymar, Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Alexis Sanchez... they're a team to be reckoned with. They still have areas where maybe you can expose them. But that's if you actually get the ball off them. I think City showed them far too much respect. Whether that was their coach Manuel Pellegrini, or midfielder <span>Yaya Toure</span>, or some of these players that weren't at their best. They didn't look like City at home where they scored over 70 goals. They lost their drive. Barcelona, once they get into a rhythm, are still the best in the world.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Speaking tactically, City came out with two players you expect at left-back, <span>Gael Clichy</span> and Aleksander Kolarov. Were they trying to play conservatively? Was it a mistake?</i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>WB: </b>Yeah, I think for anyone that's been successful against Barcelona... whether it's been Celtic in the group stage last year, or whether it's Bayern Munich last year... you play conservative, but you also play aggressive when you have the ball. City didn't do that. They played at <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona's</a> tempo, and once you do that, you are never going to beat them. You have to take them out of their stride. You have to make <span>Sergio Busquets</span> face his own goal. You have to make <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves">Dani Alves</a> defend. You have to make Pique defend balls. And they never did that. Of course, Barcelona is going to have the ball. They're going to have it large parts of the game. But I think City stood back and didn't play to Alvaro Negredo's strengths, Yaya Toure wasn't as physical or as dominant as we've seen. Maybe that was the respect of playing against his old team.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>After the match, everyone was talking about the referee. Pellegrini was blasting him. How much do you think the referee was a factor?</i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>WB: </b>No, I think he made the right calls. I think coaches have to look at their decisions. Go back to Pellegrini, when they played Bayern Munich, and taking strikers off when you needed one goal to top their group, with still 10, 12 minutes to go. He talks about the referee to take away from Barcelona, but for me it was the right call. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110049/martin-demichelis">Martin Demichelis</a> was the last man. The slide started outside, but the contact was inside the box. There was no surprise. If you look at people's reactions afterwards, they knew it was the case. There's no doubt in my mind that the referee made the right call. Demichelis started the slide outside the box, but when he actually touched him, it was in the box.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>How do you think Tata Martino did in his first Champions League knockout stage game?</i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>WB: </b>It's very difficult for a coach of Barcelona because, I mean, that team picks itself. And that team plays its own way. He's been clever enough and respectful enough to just let the players play. It's not rocket science. They play their own way, there's not a tactical switch. They're not going to switch like Manchester City, where they play Aguero and <span>David Silva</span>, and then play Negredo. Barcelona play Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Busquets, Pique, Dani Alves - it picks itself. It's whether you play Sanchez or Pedro, but they're similar players. It's whether they play Fabregas or Xavi, they're similar players. What a good coach would do is just let them play.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>We’d like to thank everyone at FOX Sports for taking the time to work with us. We'd also like to thank Warren specifically for providing us with his expert insight. For more analysis, be sure to catch their </i><a href="http://foxs.pt/1gAAd8k" target="_blank">coverage of the Champions League</a><i> on FOX Sports. Also, you can follow Warren Barton on twitter </i><a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/warrenbarton2">@warrenbarton2</a><i>.</i></p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2014/2/20/5427972/uefa-champions-league-manchester-city-vs-barcelona-warren-bartonLuis Mazariegos2014-02-19T16:44:16+01:002014-02-19T16:44:16+01:00From The Mind of Xoel: Fake City, Respect Barça!
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<figcaption>Messi | Clive Brunskill</figcaption>
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<p>FC Barcelona went to the Etihad Stadium and defeated Manchester City 2-0 in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League matchup on Tuesday night. In this article, Xoel Càrdenas gives you his take on the win, Tata's tactics, City being false advertising, Pellegrini losing class, and Barcelona reminding the football world to respect them. </p> <p></p>
<p><b></b></p>
<p align="justify">FC Barcelona showed the world that they are not fading away anytime soon as El Blaugrana dominated possession, tempo, and defeated Manchester City 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night.</p>
<p align="justify">Lionel Messi's penalty kick gave Barça the lead in the 54<sup>th</sup> minute after Leo was taken down by Martin Demichelis. Despite the foul starting outside the box, FIFA rules state that if a foul starts outside the box and continues inside the penalty area, the referee should call a penalty. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves">Dani Alves</a> sealed the win<span class="st">—</span>potentially this Champions League match-up<span class="st">—</span>with his goal in the 90th minute. Away goals are a thing of beauty. It was a great night in Manchester for FC Barcelona!</p>
<p align="justify">Let me give you my take on this game.</p>
<p align="justify"><b> </b></p>
<p align="justify"><b>Tata's plan worked</b></p>
<p align="justify">Tata Martino knew that Xavi had to play this game to help keep ball possession in Barça's favor. But Tata also knew that he could not sit neither <span>Cesc Fabregas</span> nor Andres Iniesta for this game. Both have been in excellent form of late, and needed to be on the pitch. Tata decided to go with all three mids on the pitch, sitting Pedro and Neymar. This was brilliant, as Barcelona continued to possess the ball, and frustrate City.</p>
<p align="justify">Messi was able to move around freely as well as simply stay in the middle of the attack. Fabregas was great all night. Iniesta was a magician, as usual. And Xavi was the calming effect in the midfield, as usual. Did I mention <span>Sergio Busquets</span> did his job as well? I didn't agree with taking off Cesc for <span>Sergi Roberto</span> in the last few minutes, but I can't complain. Tata's tactics slowed down City with ball possession and midfielding dominance<span class="st">—</span>and FC Barcelona has the best mids in the world. Don't be surprised if Tata goes back to this formation for the second leg to finish off City.</p>
<p align="justify"><b>Manchester City: False advertising?</b></p>
<p align="justify">Ever since the Champions League draw was announced, all I kept hearing was how Manchester City were going to do this, and do that, and so on. The English media and many other media outlets around the world continued to praise City based on their Premier League wins at home, while disregarding Barça's chances. But as we saw on Tuesday night, Manchester City is a good team, but not a great team. FC Barcelona is still a great team, and deserves to be respected.</p>
<p align="justify">I'm not saying I think City is garbage, because they're not. They are a solid squad, and I respect them as a good club. But what I am saying is that City are not yet at the level of Bayern Munich, FC Barcelona, yes, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> or even Chelsea when it comes to success in European competition. There's nothing wrong with that<span class="st">—</span>not all clubs can be at the level of the clubs mentioned.</p>
<p align="justify">The media and many other so-called "experts" advertised Manchester City as a giant of Europe, when they are still only a giant of the Premier League. False advertising, in my opinion. Manchester City and the people that crowned them as favorites in this tie were humbled on Tuesday night.</p>
<p align="justify"><b>City: Following their leader in excuses</b></p>
<p align="justify">After the game, Jesus Navas said until the Demichelis red car, City was "controlling the game." What game was he a part of? Obviously not this game, apparently. That's weak on Navas' part. I guess whatever makes you feel better, Jesus. Vincent Kompany said his team felt Barcelona were not superior to City when it was 11 against 11. Again, another odd comment. I understand there are some things you simply cannot admit as an athlete, but still, when it's as clear as this game was of FCB's superiority in controlling the game, possession-wise and tempo-wise, you'd think an opponent would be a bit more humbler than that. Then again, Kompany's frustration made him say that.</p>
<p align="justify">Manuel Pellegrini started the conspiracy/UEFAlona theories by stating that referee, Jonas Eriksson, was biased toward Barcelona and that a referee from Sweden should not have been officiating a game of this magnitude in the Champions League. "I told him (Eriksson) he decided the game. I was not happy. He did not have any control of the game. He favored Barcelona from the beginning to the end. I do not think it was a good idea to put a referee from Sweden in charge..."</p>
<p align="justify">Stay classy, Manuel. Perhaps your frustration is more about your inability to defeat Barcelona. You couldn't do it with Real Madrid, or <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/malaga">Málaga</a>, or now at Manchester City. I was surprised to see Manuel put his team's inability to create better chances or to gain possession aside, and instead, blame the referee for the loss. And it was low class to say a referee from Sweden shouldn't be officiating a game like this. I don't believe Eriksson was trying to "make up" for a bad call against Barcelona.</p>
<p align="justify">I have always respected Pellegrini, but now I think "the engineer" is overly frustrated that he cannot "design" a win against Barcelona, and is full of excuses as if he were a Madridista. And by the looks and sounds of things, his team<span class="st">—</span>minus <span>Yaya Toure</span>, Alvaro Negredo, and <span>Pablo Zabaleta</span><span class="st">—</span>follows his lead.</p>
<p align="justify"><b>Dani Alves: Never stop working</b></p>
<p align="justify"><b> </b></p>
<p align="justify">Dani Alves was straight ballin' all night for Barça. Sure, there were a few poor crosses, but hey, that happens with Alves. But his hustle was unstoppable all game long, and when Demichelis was rightfully sent off, Dani knew he could be the X factor to sink City's blue ship. Alves continued to pressure from the right wing as he moved up to try and set up a goal. In the 68<sup>th</sup> minute, Dani nearly had a goal as his shot went a foot or two wide of the far post.</p>
<p align="justify">But in the 90<sup>th</sup> minute, Dani got the goal he was looking for as his countryman Neymar gave the ball back to Dani, and Alves' hustle was able to get to the ball before <span>Joe Hart</span> could and slip it past Hart and into the back of the net. That goal completely changed this tie. Instead of needing a 1-0 to, at minimum, go into extra time in the second leg if the first leg would have ended 1-0 Barça, City will have to try and get a 3-0 or 3-1 win or greater to move on to the quarterfinals.</p>
<p align="justify">But remember, it's nearly impossible for City or any team to shut out FC Barcelona at the Camp Nou in any competition. Dani Alves' goal may be the cannonball shot/goal that sinks City's ship.</p>
<p align="justify"><b>Respect Barça</b></p>
<p align="justify">Over the past few weeks, there has been much talk about Barcelona fading away. From Philipp Lahm's comments about FCB not being favorites<span class="st">—</span>I personally did not find anything wrong with Lahm's comments<span class="st">—</span>to Jose Mourinho saying this is the worst Barça in years, to the media making Manchester City the favorites in this Champions League tie, many seem to be desirous of seeing <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona's</a> demise, if not, disrespect the Catalan giants.</p>
<p align="justify">On Wednesday night, FC Barcelona shut a whole lot of people up.</p>
<p align="justify">Does this team still have much to improve upon? Of course. The defense is still shaky, and that is a major concern. But it seems like many have either forgotten that this team is still the leaders in La Liga, are in the Copa Del Rey final and so on. I don't understand why there are so many people that suddenly forgot how good this team is. Perhaps it's because of the success of the <span>Pep Guardiola</span> years that FCB has such high standards for some. I can buy that. But what I can't buy is how many so-called "football experts" and even people in the game (players, managers) have suddenly forgotten that this team is still one the best in the world.</p>
<p align="justify">It's more than just hating on Barcelona. It's stupidity and ignorance by many.</p>
<p align="justify">The reason I said I had no issue with Philipp Lahm's comment is because he is right: FC Barcelona are not favorites this season. <i>I'd</i> be stupid and ignorant to not acknowledge that Bayern Munich are and should be considered the favorites. They are a great team, are the defending champions, managed by Pep, and deserve to be considered the favorites. I respect Bayern, but I'll take my Barça any day.</p>
<p align="justify">This FC Barcelona club is warming up and getting healthy at the right time, and on Tuesday, they proved they have been and will continue to be one of the favorites in this Champions League. Barça have earned and deserve respect. And with their 2-0 win on the road against Manchester City, Barcelona shut up many and made a huge statement to the football world: we are always to be feared.</p>
<p align="justify"><b>Xoel's Final Word</b></p>
<p align="justify">The match-up the football world was waiting for arrived. And on Tuesday night at the Etihad Stadium, FC Barcelona came, saw, and conquered as they defeated Manchester City with a 2-0 scoreline.</p>
<p align="justify">There is still a second leg in this tie, and Barcelona will be at home to look to finish off City. But that is not for a while, so time to re-focus on La Liga this weekend.</p>
<p align="justify">Way to make a statement, boys!</p>
<p align="justify">Respect Barça!</p>
<p align="justify">Força Barça!</p>
<p align="justify">Vamos!</p>
<p align="justify">Xoel, <i>The</i> Voice of FC Barcelona</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2014/2/19/5425746/fake-manchester-city-respect-barcelona-xoel-cardenasXoel Cardenas2014-02-19T16:09:40+01:002014-02-19T16:09:40+01:00Manchester City 0-2 FC Barcelona: Player Ratings
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<figcaption>Clive Brunskill</figcaption>
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<p>A detailed, player-by-player breakdown of Barcelona's UEFA Champions League victory against Manchester City</p> <p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Victor Valdes<br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>8.5</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"><b>90</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>26</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>12</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>58</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots Faced: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Saves Made: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>7.5</i></b></span>
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<span> </span>
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<p class="MsoNormal">Considering how much buzz Manchester City created around the Barcelona penalty box Valdes had remarkably little to do. He only faced three shots, two of which were fairly straightforward, though the late shot by Silva forced Valdes to make a good save, and made just one clearance. But that was action enough for Valdes to nearly gift a goal as he midway through the first half once again carelessly left the line to punch-out a ball that he plain missed. Though he did well to recover from that mistake, but had <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110049/martin-demichelis" class="sbn-auto-link">Martin Demichelis</a>' header been on target the game could've went in a different direction.</p>
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</td>
</tr>
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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/110098/dani-alves" class="sbn-auto-link">Dani Alves</a></td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">8.3</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"><b>90</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>119</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>62</b></span><b></b>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>89%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2/1</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"><b></b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls: </span><span class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Fouls Won: <b>2</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>8.5</i></b></span>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Alves has been on the receiving end of some criticism lately, but he once again showed that he remains one of the best right-backs in the business. Although he at first struggled a bit defensively, fouling the opponent one too many times which earned him a yellow card early in the game, he settled down, putting in a solid performance on the back end. But arguably his biggest contribution to the game came on the attacking side of the ball where combined well with both Alexis and Neymar. Each of them helped create Alves a scoring chance, but while he sent the first one wide of the post he made no such mistake the second time and secured the two goal advantage for Barcelona.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
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</td>
</tr>
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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/110855/gerard-pique" class="sbn-auto-link">Gerard Pique</a></td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.9</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"><b>90</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>72</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>53</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>92</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions: <b>0</b></span><span class="statwords"><b></b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>12</b></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won: <b>9</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>8.0</i></b></span>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">At times it appeared is if Pique had a relatively quiet game, but a second look will show that the tall center-back put in a very strong showing. He was tested a lot in the air game where he came out a winner 75% of the time, winning a rarely seen nine duels. His positioning was solid throughout the game. He even got involved on the attack on a couple occasions and he should've been rewarded with a goal, but it was incorrectly ruled out for offside.</p>
<p> </p>
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</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>
<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><br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.7</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<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"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Touches: <b>64</b></span></div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>50</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>96%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won: <b>1</b></span><b></b>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>8.0</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal">For those wondering why Mascherano is getting the nod ahead of <span>Marc Bartra</span> against "big teams" just check the tape of this game. Even though he on paper should've been physically outmatched by Alvaro Negredo, Mascherano not only held his own, he dominated the Spaniard on occasion. The Argentinian led the team in tackles and was constantly in good position to make the necessary play even if it meant to step up into the opposing player and pick up a yellow card as a result. Mascherano's passing from the back end was superb all game.</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;">
<span>Jordi Alba</span><br>
</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"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>92</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>67</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>94%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0/0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><b>7</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won</span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key passes: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"><b></b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><i><b>7.5</b></i></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal">Alba had a quiet game against City, but that came as a result of the fact that Alba sacrificed his attacking duties for a more solidified defensive performance. There were no overlapping runs, no one-twos high up the pitch with Iniesta, hell, there were even no crosses. But that's OK, because Alba made up for that with a good defensive game. He had some trouble at times with Zabaleta and Silva, but overall it was an encouraging game in the back third for Alba who has been known to struggle when asked to take on a more defensive approach.</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>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>7.6</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"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>75</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>108</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>97%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0/0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"><b></b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><i><b>7.5</b></i></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal">Busquets had a huge role tonight, stopping the likes of <span>David Silva</span>, Negredo and Touré from getting at the <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> defence. Unsurprisingly, he did this brilliantly and Barcelona’s early possession was helped by Busquets speed at transferring defensive plays into attacking plays. His job is also usually marked by the things you don’t see, such as a run from a City midfielder into the Barça box. These were largely unseen because Busquets was smart when deciding who to track so that the defence isn’t overpowered. This can be largely attributed to his positioning, when there was a gap in the defence, Busi was quick to fill it. An impressive night that showed you don’t always need power to boss the midfield.</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;">Xavi<br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.9</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"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>144</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>133</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>96%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>/1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers:</span><span class="statwords"><b> 0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"><b></b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>8.0</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<p class="MsoNormal">Xavi twice found himself staring at Joe Hart’s goal. The first chance, a diagonal power shot from the dye of the area, produced a finger tip save from the City keeper. With his second he attempted to side-foot the ball into the net but got under it too much and the ball sailed over. Passing wise, Xavi was again the best on the park. Making a total of 133 passes, just 57 less then the entire City midfield, and with a success rate 96% ensured the Barcelona remained in control for the majority of the match.</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;">
<span>Cesc Fabregas</span><br>
</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>
</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"><b>86</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>123</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>106</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>92%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0/0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>7.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal">Being arguably the strongest midfielder, one of Fàbregas’ roles tonight was to stop Yaya Touré bursting through and attacking the defence. A duty he performed well, coupled with Busquets, as Touré was unable to pick up the ball at the halfway line and charge at the Barça defence. Attacking wise, Fàbregas seemed more reserved then usual with both Xavi and Iniesta playing in front of him. Perhaps this was to stop City from countering but when the Spaniard did get forward he looked dangerous. The intricate one-twos with Messi were attempted and came off towards the latter parts of the game, springing Fàbregas clear who in turn found Piqué only for it to be ruled incorrectly offside.</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;">Alexis Sanchez<br>
</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">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>74</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>54</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>40</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>85%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0/0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>7.0</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">An okay night for Alexis in which any ball passed to him tended to be a lobbed through ball for him to chase down. Although he did combine well with the ever-willing to get forward Dani Alves. Alexis made good runs too, exploiting Clichy when the full-back failed to track the run. His game could be summed up by runs that didn’t quite make it and crosses that were a little too long. His effort can’t be faulted though and he helped track back when Alves had made a run and ensured Kolarov didn’t get space.</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 href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi" class="sbn-auto-link">Lionel Messi</a><br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">8.4</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"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>103</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>84</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>92%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><b>6/2</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><b>3</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: 8.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i></i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p class="MsoNormal">As most teams do, the majority of City defenders were surrounding Messi which meant his opening stages were very quiet. As the game grew and City legs tired, Messi found himself with more and more space and punished City. He looked threatening towards the end of the first half, a curled effort on his weaker that flew over the bar but he made a great run through the City defence at the start of the second. Iniesta spotted it, Demichelis saw red and Messi converted the following penalty. From here it was business as usual for Messi, probing around the penalty area looking for an opening. His presence helped to drag defenders and leave space for the other attackers. Overall a very good night and Messi’s first ever goal in Manchester.</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;">Andres Iniesta<br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">8.3</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: <b>90</b></span></div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>110</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>94</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0/0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>5</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: 8.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">As he has been in the last two matches, Iniesta was a candidate for best player on the field. His incisive passing helped Barcelona to find the City net and he never seemed afraid to run at the defence, knowing his ball control could see him make some decent yardage. The Barça number eight was also close to opening in the scoring in the first half, chinking his way through the City defence before Yaya Touré just scrambled the ball away. His precision pass led to the changing point in the game and he and Fàbregas switched positions excellently throughout.</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;">Neymar<br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">7.7</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"><b>26</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>25</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>22</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>91%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Successful dribbles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>7.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Much like his return on Saturday evening against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/rayo-vallecano" class="sbn-auto-link">Rayo Vallecano</a>, Neymar was a little subdued as he entered the game late on, but he again bounced back to make the difference. Combining with compatriot Dani Alves, Neymar provided the assist for Dani's all-important second goal -- and for that alone, justified Martino's decision to bring him into the game.</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>Sergi Roberto</span><br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">7.0</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"><b>4</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>8</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>7</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><b>100%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>N/A</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<p class="MsoNormal">I'm sure I'm not the only one who was somewhat surprised to see Sergi Roberto's number called in the dying stages of last night's match; it's not that he lacks talent, just that it was a bold decision for Martino to make. However, like everything else last night, it paid dividends as Roberto hustled and harried his way through the final minutes to help keep Manchester City at bay. Still, he didn't see enough action to warrant a full rating from me.</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>8.4</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: <b>889</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>92</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><b>10/4</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>14</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Aerial Battles Won: </span><span class="statwords"><b>65%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won/Committed: </span><span class="statwords"><b>19/10</b></span>
</div>
<br><div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>8.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">In terms of the result, this was a 10/10 performance from the Blaugrana, but as we well know after Saturday's demolition of Rayo Vallecano, Barça are equally capable of putting in better displays than they did last night. Ultimately though, what difference does it make? Football, and knockout football especially, cares not about such subjective matters -- it's the result and the result alone that makes the difference.</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>Gerardo Martino</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>
</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"><b><i>9.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">He came, he saw, he conquered. Gerardo Martino entered this match as something of an unknown quantity. He has never coached at this level in his career before, and here he was, ready to go toe-to-toe with one of the best managers in the business. And judging by the frustration that Pellegrini exhibited in the post match press conference, we know who came out on top...</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 - Dani Alves<br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>24%</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>Bostjan says: Iniesta</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 12px;">One of the closest votes in recent memory, but it the end it was the scorer of second goal who went home with the honors, picking up 24% of the votes. Closely behind Alves were Messi with 21% and Valdes with 19%.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2014/2/19/5425406/uefa-champions-league-manchester-city-0-2-fc-barcelona-player-ratingsSam Cooper2014-02-19T09:19:56+01:002014-02-19T09:19:56+01:00UCL: Barcelona 2-0 Manchester City: Highlights
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/TC0vfgKB6WCN900vRZX5lRKpnkc=/41x0:3959x2612/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/28846401/470173483.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Clive Brunskill</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A chance to relive last night's UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first-leg win over Manchester City</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">FC <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> took a giant step towards securing their place in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals last night, escaping the Etihad Arena with a 2-0 win in the first-leg of their Round of 16 clash with Premier League runners-up, Manchester City. It marked the first time in two years that the Blaugrana had won an away tie in the Champions League knockout stages; now City face an uphill task to salvage their place in the competition -- Barcelona have progressed on each of three other occasions that they have won away from home in this competition since 2009.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Manchester City have to roll with it, some might say that progress in this competition comes in small increments -- little by little if you will. Don't look back in anger; focus on the positives and learn from the negatives -- that's the recipe for success in this famous competition.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">For Barcelona on the other hand, this result represents progress, hopes and perhaps now expectations. If we can defeat one of the best clubs in Europe at their fortress-like home, one might hope and expect us to put up a better fight if we are paired with Bayern Munich again. Who knows, maybe this win instills Barcelona as one of outright favourites for the competition, potentially even ahead of Bayern Munich, depending on the result of their first-leg against Arsenal?</p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2014/2/19/5425116/uefa-champions-league-fc-barcelona-2-0-manchester-city-highlightsArron Duckling2014-02-19T00:45:38+01:002014-02-19T00:45:38+01:00UCL: Post Match Thoughts
<figure>
<img alt="Victory!" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/DQZhyMI1ezYMRUObZ0ykH3y5FAY=/0x350:3117x2428/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/28830957/470173117.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Victory! | Clive Brunskill</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>What else did we expect from a former Real Madrid coach, and other lessons to be learned from tonight's win</p> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b><i>Pellegrini and Kompany lose their nerve</i></b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Don’t worry Manuel, you’ll get used to it soon enough. I suppose when you’ve lost on 19 separate occasions to the same team, it can get a little much; for Manuel Pellegrini, tonight’s 2-0 home defeat against FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> was the straw that broke the camel’s back as the usually mild-mannered coach launched into a tirade against referee Jonas Eriksson. Meanwhile, in the bowels of the stadium, Manchester City captain towed the company line, belittling Barcelona’s win with an astonishing attack on the very team that had just emerged comfortable 2-0 winners at the Etihad Arena.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Bemoaning the referee’s decision to award a penalty for Martin Demichelis’ reckless challenge on <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, Pellegrini insinuated that there was some grand conspiracy edging momentum in favour of FC Barcelona, while Kompany bluntly claimed that this Barcelona team was nothing special and in no way superior on the night. Whether he settled on this opinion before or after the visiting right-back nutmegged City goalkeeper <span>Joe Hart</span> to make it 2-0 remains to be seen.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Of course, neither Pellegrini nor Kompany are completely off base with their remarks – Barcelona could have played better, and following a slow motion replay or two, it’s clear to see that Demichelis made contact with Lionel Messi outside of the area. But perhaps it’s more pertinent to ask why Kompany was playing Messi onside in the first place, or why Pellegrini opted to start Demichelis in the first place.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Once the dust has settled and tempers have cooled, Manchester City will look back on tonight’s match and realise that they weren’t beaten by UEFA, the referee or the Illuminati. They were beaten by themselves, by the brilliance of Barcelona head coach <span>Gerardo Martino</span>, and by an FC Barcelona side that knew exactly what was required of them to secure a favourable result in this UEFA Champions League tie.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">The sooner they can come to terms with these facts, the sooner they stand a chance of actually competing at an elite level.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Can we finally shut up about the defense now?</i></b></p>
<p><b><i><br></i></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Headed into tonight’s match, the mainstream media was focusing on Manchester City’s potent strikeforce; an offensive juggernaut that has statistically been the best in Europe this season. Meanwhile, there was the continuing narrative surrounding Barcelona’s defense, or more accurately the continued inference that Barça lack substance at the back. 90 minutes and a clean sheet later, is it time to end the criticism?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The supposedly declining Dani Alves dominated the right flank after a somewhat shaky start, justifying Manuel Pellegrini’s respectful team selection with a late goal to double Barcelona’s aggregate lead. Jordi Alba displayed tremendous discipline, especially given the acres of space ahead of him, to shut down both Jesus Navas and Pablo Zabaleta. Gerard Piqué was in imperious form, constantly shepherding Alvaro Negredo away from goal, frustrating the City offense with impeccable control and composure under pressure, while Javier Mascherano was a colossus – at one point the diminutive Argentine stopped Yaya Toure in his tracks, robbing the Ivorian of possession with a tackle that was timed to perfection.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">And this was no fluke performance either. Barcelona shut out Atletico Madrid on two separate occasions this season and very nearly did the same against Real Madrid. In fact, this kind of dominant performance has become so commonplace in the biggest matches that I’m beginning to think they aren’t half bad after all...</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>In fact, can’t some people just shut up altogether?</i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">FC Barcelona are leading La Liga with 60 points from 24 matches. They have booked their place in the final of the 2014 Copa del Rey – after already lifting the only trophy available to them thus far this season – and the Blaugrana are now all but through to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League for the umpteenth year in succession. In Lionel Messi they possess the greatest player in living memory; certainly things don’t look too negative from where I’m sitting, so why can’t some Culés just focus on the positives?</p>
<p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2014/2/19/5423914/uefa-champions-league-haters-gonna-hate-fc-barcelona-gonna-progressArron Duckling2014-02-18T23:01:52+01:002014-02-18T23:01:52+01:00Manchester City 0-2 FC Barcelona: Match Review
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/dLob8F-7Qt17DIQQKrxicMn1cMs=/180x330:3182x2331/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/28825867/470153719.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Clive Brunskill</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A recap of the action from Barcelona's 2-0 win over Manchester City in the Champions League Round of 16 first leg</p> <p align="justify">In a hard fought first leg at Etihad Stadium Barcelona ran out deserved winners over a Manchester City side that finished the match with 10 men. Both goals were scored with the hosts shorthanded with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi" class="sbn-auto-link">Lionel Messi</a> converting a penalty kick and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves" class="sbn-auto-link">Dani Alves</a> adding a goal in the dying moments of the game.</p>
<table width="250" border="1" align="center" style="height: 224px;" class="sbn-data-table"><tbody>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td align="left"><br></td>
<td>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Manchester City</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">FC Barcelona</a></b></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td align="left"><b>Possession</b></td>
<td align="left"><b>32%<br></b></td>
<td align="left"><b>68%</b></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td align="left">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Total Shots</b></p>
</td>
<td align="left"><b>9</b></td>
<td align="left"><b>10<br></b></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td align="left">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Shots on Target</b></p>
</td>
<td align="left"><b>3</b></td>
<td align="left"><b>4<br></b></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td align="left">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Pass Accuracy</b></p>
</td>
<td align="left"><b>82%<br></b></td>
<td align="left"><b>92%<br></b></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td align="left"><b>Corners</b></td>
<td align="left"><b>1<br></b></td>
<td align="left"><b>4<br></b></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td align="left"><b>Fouls</b></td>
<td align="left"><b>19<br></b></td>
<td align="left"><b>10<br></b></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td align="left"><b>Offsides</b></td>
<td align="left"><b>0<br></b></td>
<td align="left"><b>6<br></b></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td align="left">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Yellow Cards</b></p>
</td>
<td align="left"><b>1<br></b></td>
<td align="left"><b>2<br></b></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td align="left">
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Red Cards</b></p>
</td>
<td align="left"><b>1<br></b></td>
<td align="left"><b>0<br></b></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p align="justify"><span>Gerardo Martino</span> fielded a lineup similar to the one that did what was necessary at Anoeta to secure Barcelona's advance to the Copa del Rey Final. The only two changes to the starting XI compared to that game were the obvious change in goal, where Victor Valdes got the nod, with the other change coming in the front three where Alexis Sanchez replaced Pedro.</p>
<p align="justify">On paper this was a mouthwatering match-ups with both teams possessing electrifying offenses. That coupled with both teams occasionally struggling on the defensive side of the ball many were expecting a goal-fest. It turned out to be anything but.</p>
<p align="justify">Manchester City started the game from midfield, but it was Barcelona who utterly dominated the ball in the early going. The hosts seemed to have no problem giving Barça the ball. City also didn't pressure the ball carrier much until the ball came within the 30-yard line which gave Barcelona plenty of time to move the ball around. However, with little room between the City lines the passes were too slow to open up the defense.</p>
<p align="justify">In the opening 10 minutes Manchester City only once came close to Valdes' penalty area, when <span>Pablo Zabaleta</span> eluded <span>Jordi Alba</span> on a quick counter, but the Argentinian's cross was calmly cleared by his national team teammate, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110053/javier-mascherano" class="sbn-auto-link">Javier Mascherano</a>.</p>
<p align="justify">Barcelona simply didn't allow the hosts to "step on the ball" and organize an attack from the back. The high pressure was on for Barcelona and Manchester City struggled to string together more than four or five passes.</p>
<p align="justify">But they didn't always need that many passes to threaten, something they showed in the 15th minute. A high ball was sent into the Barcelona penalty area from a deep position that appeared to be controlled by Alvaro Negredo. But Mascherano was in a good position once again to calmly clear the ball to an open teammate. Soon thereafter <span>Yaya Toure</span> went on a run similar to the one in the 2008-09 Copa del Rey Final against <a href="https://athletic.theoffside.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Athletic Bilbao</a> from which a dangerous cross was sent in but didn't yield a goal.</p>
<p align="justify">City slowly started to take control of the match in these minutes as they were able to rather easily create chances. In the 19th minute <span>David Silva</span> created a great chance for Negredo, but <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110855/gerard-pique" class="sbn-auto-link">Gerard Pique</a> excellently forced the former <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/sevilla" class="sbn-auto-link">Sevilla</a> man wide into an angle from which he had no chance to score.</p>
<p align="justify">Barcelona's deficiencies on set-pieces have been well documented in recent weeks and City's best chance so far (arguably of the game) came in the 25th minute after a Silva free kick. Valdes whiffed on the punch-out attempt which allowed a header on goal. But the header had a high arc as it reached cross-like heights, falling down right in front of goal where Valdes made up for his mistake and recovered the ball.</p>
<p align="justify">Then came Barcelona's minutes again with the Catalans creating a few chances in a short time. First a lovely one-two between Messi and Andres Iniesta gave Iniesta some space but good defending by Yaya didn't allow the Barcelona midfielder to take the shot. Then Xavi surprised everybody but <span>Joe Hart</span> with a 25-yard drive that the England international produced an excellent saved.</p>
<p align="justify">Teams exchanged offensive zone time in the final 10 minutes of the half, though the hosts looked the more dangerous side. Negredo especially looked like a man on a mission connecting with just about every cross that came near him (and with those that didn't), but he wasn't able to threaten the Barcelona goal.</p>
<p align="justify">The entertaining, but slightly unfulfilling first half came to a scoreless end the very second the clock struck 45 minutes.</p>
<p align="justify">Both sides came out in the second half with the same line-up they started the game with. Manchester City quickly threatened through Negredo, but the Barcelona defensive line was up to the early task. Barça then started to assert their domination of the ball once again and quickly the Catalans were able to create dangerous rushes, but at first without any result.</p>
<p align="justify">However, that changed in the 53rd minute when Iniesta sent a brilliant through pass to Messi who escaped the defense. Martín Demichelis was giving chase and attempted to dispossess Messi with a diving tackle but caught Messi instead. As the last defender Demichelis was showed a straight red card, but a penalty was also awarded even though the replay showed that the initial contact might have come a few inches outside of the penalty box. Messi stepped up to take the penalty and calmly slotted it into the back of the net.</p>
<p align="justify">Despite being a man down City remained dangerous. They created a couple half chances near the one hour mark when Barcelona misplaced a few too many passes, but first Pique and then Alba made good plays to stop the potentially dangerous chances.</p>
<p align="justify">Barça also remained dangerous though their job wasn't made any easier with the Demichelis dismissal. City stayed organized in defense, but chances were still there to take advantage of. First Xavi had a shot on goal from about 15-yards out, but his shot sailed over the crossbar, and then about a minute later an even better chance fell into the arms of Alves. The Brazilian and Alexis played a brilliant one-two which allowed Dani to get right to the goal, but his shot whistled wide of the far post.</p>
<p align="justify">The hosts created another very good scoring opportunity in the 75th minute when Zabaleta found Silva in the penalty box. Silva wasted no time to take a shot on goal, but Valdes was in perfect position and made the save look easier than it was. Before that chance Tata Martino made his first substitution of the game, replacing Alexis with Neymar.</p>
<p align="justify">In the 81st minute Barcelona appeared to have doubled the lead after a brilliant pass by Xavi to Cesc who squared it to Pique in the middle. With the goalkeeper already out of the picture Pique simply tapped the ball in, but the play was whistled dead for offside. The replay, however, showed that Pique only appeared to be offside when the pass was going to Cesc, who was onside at the time, which shouldn't have resulted in the whistle.</p>
<p align="justify">Five minutes before the end of regulation Tata pulled Cesc to the bench, replacing him with <span>Sergi Roberto</span>.</p>
<p align="justify">Manchester City pressed once again in the last phase of the game, pinning Barcelona into their defensive zone for a couple minutes. But they only had a corner kick, their first of the match, to show for despite creating a lot of buzz around the penalty area.</p>
<p align="justify">Though Alves made sure that it would be Barcelona that would have the last say in the game. It appeared to come slightly out of nowhere, but suddenly Alves was once again alone in front of Hart. But this time the Brazilian wasn't going to make the same mistake he made earlier in the game as he scored through the legs of the keeper to secure Barcelona a commanding 2-0 lead going into the second leg which will be played at the Camp Nou on 12 March.</p>
<p align="justify">Plenty of football will be played until that point and anything can still happen in the second leg, but Barcelona are now clear favorites to advance to the next round of the competition. Until then the Catalans will have to focus on the Spanish league where on Saturday a tough challenge awaits as Barcelona returns to the Anoeta to face <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/real-sociedad" class="sbn-auto-link">Real Sociedad</a>.</p>
<p><iframe width="760" height="580" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/embeddedform?formkey=dE1rUF9xcDAyM2cxRlV0QWpRcmpQSWc6MA">Loading...</iframe></p>
<h3>Roll Call:</h3>
<h3></h3>
<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="1">
<thead><tr>
<th colspan="2">Roll Call Info</th>
</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="150">Total comments</td>
<td>661</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>Total commenters</td>
<td>49</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Commenter list</td>
<td>
<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AL_LM10">AL_LM10</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Anders%20Thomassen">Anders Thomassen</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ayush%20Tiwari">Ayush Tiwari</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Barca4ever">Barca4ever</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BarcaLifer">BarcaLifer</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Barcacatalunya">Barcacatalunya</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Bostjan%20Cernensek">Bostjan Cernensek</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Eddie%20Pundell">Eddie Pundell</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCB4Ever">FCB4Ever</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCBMessi">FCBMessi</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/GasperSM">GasperSM</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Giancarlo8">Giancarlo8</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Harshiv%20Karia">Harshiv Karia</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ian%20Reynolds">Ian Reynolds</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Jairo%20Guardado">Jairo Guardado</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Jonni">Jonni</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JoseM24">JoseM24</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Lapulga">Lapulga</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Luis%20Mazariegos">Luis Mazariegos</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Maaz%20Rehman">Maaz Rehman</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/NoImagination90">NoImagination90</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/PatrickJM6">PatrickJM6</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ricardo%20Blonde">Ricardo Blonde</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Richzorz">Richzorz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Som-i-Serem">Som-i-Serem</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Stavrolini">Stavrolini</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Stephen%20Schmidt">Stephen Schmidt</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ThreePar">ThreePar</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Tokjee">Tokjee</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Uncharted_Almo">Uncharted_Almo</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ViscaViscaBarca">ViscaViscaBarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ade%20fox">ade fox</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/craig00000">craig00000</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/damaso">damaso</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/defeaning_silence">defeaning_silence</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/fcb123">fcb123</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/feeya7">feeya7</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/footballfordoze">footballfordoze</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/hobo_barca">hobo_barca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/istiaquemahmud.songi">istiaquemahmud.songi</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/justdoit94">justdoit94</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/messism">messism</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/oneeyeg">oneeyeg</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/papant7">papant7</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/pogis1991">pogis1991</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/rnmrqz">rnmrqz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/stocks712">stocks712</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/teamshao">teamshao</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/tgmgg">tgmgg</a>
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<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="1">
<thead><tr>
<th width="20">#</th> <th>Commenter</th> <th># Comments</th>
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<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Barcacatalunya">Barcacatalunya</a></td>
<td>102</td>
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<tr class="alt">
<td>2</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Anders%20Thomassen">Anders Thomassen</a></td>
<td>58</td>
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<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Lapulga">Lapulga</a></td>
<td>45</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AL_LM10">AL_LM10</a></td>
<td>37</td>
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<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Richzorz">Richzorz</a></td>
<td>34</td>
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<tr class="alt">
<td>6</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Harshiv%20Karia">Harshiv Karia</a></td>
<td>31</td>
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<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/footballfordoze">footballfordoze</a></td>
<td>29</td>
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<tr class="alt">
<td>8</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Bostjan%20Cernensek">Bostjan Cernensek</a></td>
<td>27</td>
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<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/GasperSM">GasperSM</a></td>
<td>24</td>
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<tr class="alt">
<td>10</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/PatrickJM6">PatrickJM6</a></td>
<td>21</td>
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<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Uncharted_Almo">Uncharted_Almo</a></td>
<td>21</td>
</tr>
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</table>
<p>
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2014/2/18/5423194/uefa-champions-league-manchester-city-0-2-fc-barcelona-match-reviewBostjan Cernensek2014-02-18T19:56:31+01:002014-02-18T19:56:31+01:00Manchester City vs FC Barcelona: Live Game Thread
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-Iz5IgUqZ8qiea7jGLpiC0JIzUI=/0x132:2600x1865/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/28815843/466372183.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Manuel Queimadelos Alonso</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Live game thread for the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 match between Manchester City and FC Barcelona</p> <p align="center">UEFA Champions League: Round of 16 1st Leg<br>Kickoff: Tuesday, 18 February 2014; 20:45 CET<br>Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England<br>Referee: Jonas Eriksson</p>
<p align="justify">Line-ups:</p>
<p align="justify">Manchester City (4-2-3-1): <span>Joe Hart</span>; <span>Pablo Zabaleta</span>, <span>Vincent Kompany</span>, Martín Demichelis, Gaël Clichy; Yaya Touré, Fernandinho; Jesús Navas, <span>David Silva</span>, <span>Aleksandar Kolarov</span>; Álvaro Negredo</p>
<p align="justify">Substitutes: <span>Costel Pantilimon</span>, <span>Joleon Lescott</span>, <span>Micah Richards</span>, Javi García, <span>Samir Nasri</span>, Edin Džeko, <span>Stevan Jovetić</span></p>
<p 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>, Gerard Piqué, <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, <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>, Andres Iniesta</p>
<p align="justify">Substitutes: Jose Manuel Pinto, <span>Marc Bartra</span>, <span>Adriano Correia</span>, <span>Alex Song</span>, <span>Sergi Roberto</span>, Pedro, Neymar</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">
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https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2014/2/18/5422924/uefa-champions-league-manchester-city-vs-fc-barcelona-live-game-threadBostjan Cernensek2014-02-18T17:17:11+01:002014-02-18T17:17:11+01:00UCL. Barcelona vs Manchester City: Key Players
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7HGsmR0eJ_TdB054dpyN3Xeej2s=/124x0:3875x2501/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/28805193/469889643.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Clive Brunskill</figcaption>
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<p>Barcelona take on MCFC in probably the most-anticipated battle of this season's Champions League so far. Will Messi run riot? Will Toure dominate? Who will be the key players?</p> <h3 style="text-align: justify;">BARCELONA</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;">Victor Valdes</h4>
<p style="text-align: justify;">"The Panther" has been in amazing form this season, by all accounts his last at Barcelona. He leads La Liga in save percentage. And despite a sometimes-leaky defense, Valdes is one of the favorites to take home another Zamora Trophy for best goals-against ratio in La Liga. At the weekend, he was faultless, stopping Rayo's long range drives, one-on-one chances, and even second-chance rebounds. He will need to be in top form again, especially improving on one of his weaknesses: claiming or punching set pieces.</p>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110855/gerard-pique" class="sbn-auto-link">Gerard Pique</a></h4>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Pique has been lambasted by his critics all season. Too slow, too unfocused, they say. Still, <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2014/2/16/5416146/gerard-pique-named-in-esm-team-of-the-month">Pique has brought it lately</a> - especially for the big games. His performance against Atletico Madrid to wrestle a clean sheet away from the current runners-up in La Liga was masterful. He'll need that form again as set pieces can be an Achilles' heel - and he'll need to be steady if City counter, as well.</p>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;"><span>Sergio Busquets</span></h4>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Busquets was off color once, and Barcelona lost their first game at the Camp Nou. He wasn't his usual near-flawless self in the recent defeat to <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/valencia" class="sbn-auto-link">Valencia</a>, and Barcelona seemed dysfunctional. That's how important he is to the Catalan machine. His interceptions and quick passing are consistently fantastic. But it may be his strength - an underrated characteristic of his - that will be necessary to fight a team which, as it is customary in meetings between Barca and EPL rivals, carries far more brawn.</p>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;">Andres Iniesta</h4>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Iniesta didn't really turn on the afterburners this season until recently. Against Atletico, he was in vintage form until he was kicked at so much he had to leave with an injury. And since his return, he's carried on as normal. He was sensational against Rayo at the weekend, effortlessly placing passes with pinpoint accuracy. For this match, Iniesta may be stuck out on the left wing, where he would face <span>Pablo Zabaleta</span>. Wherever he plays, he can be instrumental. Sometimes tactics and motivation can carry a team, at others, it's simply about your best players being at their best. Iniesta is one of the few who can turn a tie by himself.</p>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi" class="sbn-auto-link">Lionel Messi</a></h4>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Speaking of doing it alone, Messi comes in on a blazing-hot run of form. Some have questioned everything about him this season, but the chatter hardly seems to matter to him. Four of his last five goals have come from outside the area - some have been perfectly placed, bringing back the joy, some cannoned out of his left foot as he roared in celebration. His last was a chip over the keeper - from outside the box - with an audacious smile. Barcelona desperately need him to turn in another masterclass. Away matches in Europe have been a headache when Messi is not at his absolute best.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">MANCHESTER CITY</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;"><span>David Silva</span></h4>
<p style="text-align: justify;">At his best, Silva is possibly City's best player. Problem is, he's not at his best always. But much like Iniesta, he can turn a game all on his own. Silva will also have a defensive responsibility. If he plays on the left side, he may have to chip in tracking <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves" class="sbn-auto-link">Dani Alves</a>; defending is not something he's especially known for. On offense and defense, Silva could prove crucial.</p>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;"><span>Vincent Kompany</span></h4>
<p style="text-align: justify;">City's defense looks a lot better when the captain of the team, Kompany, is there to lead and organize. He also is a threat on corner-kicks. It will be interesting to see how Kompany copes with Messi's movement. He may not be the primary marker, but the organizational role will fall on him regardless.</p>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;">Alvaro Negredo</h4>
<p style="text-align: justify;">An old foe of <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona's</a>, Negredo knows what it's like to put one past Valdes. Negredo was not seen as a mega-signing in the summer, but he's proven to be extremely valuable. A compromise between a skilled, tricky forward and a pure #9, Negredo is in many ways perfectly suited to play against Barcelona. He will probably go toe-to-toe with Gerard Pique in one of the match's key battles.</p>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;">Pablo Zabaleta</h4>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A teammate of Messi's and Javier Mascherano's in the Argentine national team, Zabaleta is a class fullback. Versatile and well-balanced, Zabaleta might face varied threats today. Andres Iniesta could start on his flank, threatening him with his great vision and passing skills. Neymar, most likely coming on as a substitute, can beat him with quickness, even if the Brazilian is not 100%. Can he shut them down while still providing something going forward? A tall order, but Zabaleta may be up to the task.</p>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;"><span>Yaya Toure</span></h4>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Toure is still widely admired in Catalonia for being a charismatic, loyal player. Toure helped Barcelona to a Champions League win but lost his place to someone by the name of Busquets. Still, he gushes when he talks about his time at the Camp Nou, and still speaks Catalan. He's hard not to like, but Cules may not like him so much after this game. Compard to Busquets, the Ivorian offers more power and speed, though not quite the same technique and vision. He could bully the opposition if Barcelona let him. And it's not as if Toure is merely muscle, he is hardly lacking in other areas, and he can be a real pain on the counter. A team that can catch him out of position, though, can turn that advantage into his one weakness.</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2014/2/18/5421358/champions-league-barcelona-vs-manchester-cityLuis Mazariegos