Barca Blaugranes - La Liga: FC Barcelona vs UD Almeria: Full Match Coverage#GraciesTitohttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47187/barca-fave.png2015-04-10T19:30:06+02:00http://www.barcablaugranes.com/rss/stream/81328202015-04-10T19:30:06+02:002015-04-10T19:30:06+02:00FC Barcelona 4-0 UD Almeria: Player Ratings
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<p>A detailed, player-by-player breakdown of Barcelona's comfortable La Liga win against Almeria.</p> <p>
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<span>Claudio Bravo</span><br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.6</i></td>
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<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>34</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>18</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>44</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<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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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won</span></span></span></span>: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span>says:</b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i> 7.5</i></b></span>
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<p>Bravo wasn’t necessarily tested much against Almeria, but the Andalusian-side spread out their attacks over the entire game so meaning Bravo had to be alert throughout the game. He commanded his penalty area very well, collecting several loose balls and punching the ball out when necessary. Bravo was also credited with three saves, but none of them actually caused the Chilean to break a sweat.</p>
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<span>Dani Alves</span><br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">6.4</td>
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<span class="statwords">Minutes played: <b>63</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>74</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Passes: <b>56</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>86</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Key Passes:<b> 4</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Fouls</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>5</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span></span></span></span></span>: <b>0/0</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Clearances</span></span></span>: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Turnovers</span>: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Interceptions</span>: <b>2</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span>says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>7.0</i></b></span>
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<p>Alves had a frustratingly up-and-down game against Almeria. He made plenty of good plays, especially in attack where he combined with his teammates excellently, oftentimes setting up his teammates with some good passing. The "down" part of his attacking game was once again his crossing, where the only way to lower his already low standards was by consistently hitting the first defender in front of him. Defensively Alves also made a few very good plays, making a couple very good tackles and showing good recovery speed in one instance - after being beat by Theivy Bifouma to steal the ball back a few feet later.</p>
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<span>Javier Mascherano</span><br>
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<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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<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>70</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>65</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>97</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Interceptions: <b>0</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won</span></span>: <b>0</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span>says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>7.0</i></b></span>
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<p>Looking at Mascherano’s stats you could easily come to the conclusion that the Argentine had a pedestrian game. That was not exactly the case as Mascherano had to work hard to cope with the speedy Thievy, but the forward still often got the better of him. To say Mascherano struggled with Thievy’s speed would be an understatement. He even picked up a yellow card for a smart foul to stop a counter led by the French-born forward. It wasn’t all bad though as El Jefecito also made a few good plays.</p>
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<span>Marc Bartra</span><br>
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<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.8</i></td>
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<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>65</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>51</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>92</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Interceptions: <b>2</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Key Passes: <b>1</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span></span></span></span></span></span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1/1</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan </b></i></span>says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>8.5</i></b></span>
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<p>It seems that whenever Bartra is on the pitch he’s always one of the better players. Bartra was a force to be reckoned with on defense as well as on offense. He scored a lovely headed goal after a corner kick and even assisted on a goal, becoming the first defenseman to score a goal and assist on another in the same game since Alves in 2011 against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/mallorca">Mallorca</a>. Defensively he made several excellent tackles to stop opposing attacks and was probably the player that struggled the least when facing Thievy.</p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Adriano Correia<br>
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<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>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>74</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>62</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>92</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Turnovers: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Key Passes</span></span>: </span><b><span class="statwords">0</span></b>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>1/1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><i><b>7.0</b></i></span>
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<p>Adriano didn’t impress against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/celta-vigo">Celta Vigo</a> on Sunday, and while he didn’t set the world ablaze against in this one, there was an improvement. He was much more active in attack where he combined with his teammates much better than he did against Celta. He even tried to get on the scoreboard from his favorite position, 30-yards out, but his shot lacked power to beat Julián Cuesta. Defensively it was a mixed bag for the Brazilian, making a couple good plays, but being beat on a couple of occasions as well.</p>
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<p> </p>
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<span>Sergi Roberto</span><br>
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<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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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Minutes played: <b>90</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>72</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>62</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>95</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>5</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><b>2</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1/0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Key passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: 7.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div align="justify">
<p>In a rare starting appearance, Roberto performed well. Sitting the furthest back of the three midfielders, he worked as an orchestrator of the midfield. Helping to bridge the gap between midfield and defence, he proved effective as he created chances with his accurate passing. His defensive work was also good with five tackles and two interceptions.</p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Xavi<br>
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<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 colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<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: </span><span class="statwords"><b>110</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>98</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>93</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>1/1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Turnovers:</span><span class="statwords"><b> 0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Tackles</span>: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: 8.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div>
<p class="MsoNormal">A great performance from Xavi which reminded Barça fans just how disappointing it will be to lose him in the summer. He twice came close to opening the scoring for Barça. The first was a smart run into the box that was just a second too late for Pedro’s cross. Next he found himself with space on the edge of the area but volleyed the ball into the ground which made it easier for the keeper. He did register an assist in the game, with his whipped corner finding the head of Marc Bartra. Making 30 passes more then any other player, Xavi ran the game for Barça.</p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Ivan Rakitić<br>
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<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>
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<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>67</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>62</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>49</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>96</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>/2</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span>: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles</span></span></span></span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>0</b></span>
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<span class="statwords"><i><b>Sam says: 7.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div align="justify">
<p>Rakitić was very effective during his time on the pitch, he helped to maintain control in midfield while venturing forward to provide the strikers with more options. It was during the second half when a cross fell kindly to him and his volley forced a save from the keeper. He left the field soon after and finished the game with the second highest passing success rate of any player on the pitch.</p>
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<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Luis Suarez<br>
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<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>
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<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>37</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><b>21</b></span>
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<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>81</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
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<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>5/2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Turnovers: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
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<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Key Passes: <b>1</b></span></div>
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<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Fouls Won</span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Tackles</span></span>: </span><span class="statwords"><b>1</b></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b>Ahmed says: </b></i></span><span class="statwords"><b><i>8.5</i></b></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Something of a masterclass performance. Timed most of his runs to perfection, scored a double with his only two shots on target and never stopped harrying the Almeria defenders. His first was a stunning effort from the right and his second involved a trademark run and finish. Suarez only completed 21 passes but was effective when it truly mattered.</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><br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">8.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>90</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>95</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>68</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>88</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>5/4</b></span><span class="statwords"><b></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">Successful Dribbles: <b>5</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: <b>5</b></span><span class="statwords"></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>Ahmed says: 8.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
</div>
<div align="justify">
<p>Struggled to begin with but the frustration didn’t last long with him scoring an absolutely sensational curled strike from the right wing. Messi was Barcelona’s main source of danger and it was his magical pass which set Pedro free for the fourth goal. Messi’s passing and through balls were on the whole on point and he had a goal ruled out for a debatable foul late in the second-half. Further to this, the Argentine also worked hard defensively, as exemplified by him completing five turnovers.</p>
<br>
</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<br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;">7.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords">Minutes played: <b>90</b></span></div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><b>73</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>56</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>91</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: <b>2/1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Key Passes: <b>3</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles</span></span>: <b>4</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><b>4</b></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Ahmed </b></i></span>says: 7.5</b></i></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Timed his runs well, played with intensity and was a threat throughout with his blistering pace, but was at times let down by his first touch and end product. This can be explained by his lack of playing time and confidence, yet there is no doubting his commitment. Four fouls won, four successful dribbles completed, four turnovers and three key passes are admirable. It was his selfless pass which led to Barcelona’s fourth goal. Pedro deserves to be playing for a football club where he would start week in, week out. Will the performance be enough to keep Neymar out of the starting XI? No, it almost certainly won’t.</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>
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Martin Montoya<br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>6.4</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="vertical-align: top; font-size: 12px;" colspan="2">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>27</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>26</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>21</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>95</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Key Passes</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Interceptions: <b>1</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says: 7.0</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<span> </span>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Martin hit the headlines yesterday with an <a target="_blank" href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/9/8377993/martin-montoya-pulled-off-an-insane-trick-shot-today">audacious trick shot </a>captured in training, but he should also receive some plaudits for his performance off the bench on Wednesday evening. Replacing Dani Alves is never an easy task, nor will it be an easy task when the Brazilian calls a close to his time in Catalunya, but Montoya was an able substitute, providing the width and balance we need on the overlap down the right flank. He can cut it against Almeria; how will he fare next week against Paris Saint-Germain?</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>
<td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Rafinha<br>
</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="vertical-align: top; font-size: 12px;" colspan="2">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><b>23</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Touches: <b>17</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>15</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: <b>100</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords"><span class="statwords">Turnovers</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>: <b>2</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron says: 7.0</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<span> </span>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">The withdrawal of Ivan Rakitic was as sure a sign as any from Luis Enrique that the Croatian midfielder will start at the weekend against his former club <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/sevilla">Sevilla</a>; on Wednesday that meant a cameo for Rafinha who continued his recent run of good form with a solid performance. 100% pass completion, all without breaking a sweat. What more could we ask for?</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;">The Team</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.9</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Passes: <b>683</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: <b>19</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>/12</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><b>23</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Aerial Battles Won: <b>43</b></span><span class="statwords"><b>%</b></span>
</div>
<div class="dots">
<span class="statwords">Fouls Won/Committed: <b>14/9</b></span><span class="statwords"></span>
</div>
<br>
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron </b></i></span>says: 8.0</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Speaking of a good return from minimal effort, how about this performance from FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a>? We rarely got out of first and second gear against Almeria but were still far too strong and ended up winning by four goals. After a slow and perhaps even shaky start to the match, Barca never lost their cool, kept their composure and never looked back once Messi broke the deadlock in spectacular fashion. There's a lot more to come from the team; let's hope we see it on Saturday against Sevilla.</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>Luis Enrique</span><br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>7.9</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div class="statcont">
<br>
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><i><b><span class="statwords"><i><b>Arron </b></i></span>says: 9.0</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p class="MsoNormal">Rotations? Check. Good substitutions? Check. An emphatic win and another three points? Check and check -- that's as close to perfect as you can get in my book.</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 - <span>Lionel Messi</span><br>
</td>
<td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><i>40%</i></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;">
<div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont">
<br>
<div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><i><b>Bostjan says: Suarez</b></i></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<p>This was one of the closest Man of the match votes in recent memory, with Messi just edging it for a few votes over Luis Suarez who ended with 37%. With the two picking up the lion's share of the votes 12% were enough for Xavi to pick up the third place trophy.</p>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/10/8381389/la-liga-fc-barcelona-4-0-ud-almeria-player-ratingsBostjan CernensekArron DucklingSam CooperAhmed Shahin2015-04-08T22:21:25+02:002015-04-08T22:21:25+02:00Hi! Messi scored a Golazo
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_4zUcBUQsrZ79wz2F2kRwT2EMog=/0x0:4915x3277/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46076208/GettyImages-468919504.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Ramos/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Hi!</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span>Lionel Messi</span> did this today:</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="600" width="600" src="https://vine.co/v/eB6OBFbJara/embed/simple"></iframe>
<script src="https://platform.vine.co/static/scripts/embed.js"></script>
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Cool, huh? This easy-to-score-for-a-historically-great-player goal opened the door for a good 4-0 win by <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/almeria" class="sbn-auto-link">Almería</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">You know what? I think Messi is really good at his job.</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/8/8372099/messi-goal-almeriaRenato Gonçalves2015-04-08T22:16:07+02:002015-04-08T22:16:07+02:00FC Barcelona 4-0 UD Almeria: Match Review
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/nUjU5JJvBcGue0jzlVi7zhHDxKQ=/0x0:2992x1995/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46076086/GettyImages-468921042.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Ramos/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A recap of Barcelona's confident win against Almeria in the La Liga.</p> <p align="justify">FC Barcelona extended their La Liga lead to seven points, for a couple hours at least, with a four-goal victory over Almeria. It was not as easy as the score-line might suggest, but after <span>Lionel Messi</span>’s opener late in the first half life became easier for Barcelona. Luis Suarez’s brace and <span>Marc Bartra</span>’s goal made for a calm ending to the game.</p>
<table style="text-align: justify;" border="0" width="400">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><br></td>
<td><b>FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a><br></b></td>
<td><b>UD Almeria<br></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Possession </b></td>
<td><b>72%</b></td>
<td><b>28%</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Total Shots </b></td>
<td><b>19</b></td>
<td><b>6</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Shots on Target</b></td>
<td><b>12</b></td>
<td><b>3</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Corners</b></td>
<td><b>14</b></td>
<td><b>5</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Fouls</b></td>
<td><b>9</b></td>
<td><b>14</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Offsides</b></td>
<td><b>3</b></td>
<td><b>2</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Yellow Cards</b></td>
<td><b>1</b></td>
<td><b>1</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Red Cards</b></td>
<td><b>0</b></td>
<td><b>0</b></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p></p>
<p align="justify">With the hectic schedule in April, rotations were inevitable, but some of the changes made by <span>Luis Enrique</span> raised a few eyebrows. None of the midfielders that played against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/celta-vigo">Celta Vigo</a> three days ago survived the cut. <span>Sergi Roberto</span> made his second start of the season at defensive midfielder while Ivan Rakitić and Xavi started in front of him. In attack, Neymar was replaced by Pedro in the starting XI. The defense also received an overhaul, with Marc Bartra and <span>Javier Mascherano</span> taking their places in the heart of the defense. They were flanked by the same full-back duo that struggled against Celta on Sunday, <span>Dani Alves</span> and Adriano Correia.</p>
<p align="justify">Almeria started the match from midfield, but that was about the last time the visitors saw the ball in the opening five minutes as Barcelona embarked on a mission to score the early goal which would ensure them a calmer match. Barcelona were pressuring the Almeria players very high up the pitch, something the visitors struggled to cope with. They lost many balls in transition, but Lucho's players were unable to make them pay. In fact, they even failed to test goalkeeper Julián Cuesta, even though the Catalans were often able to get the ball into the danger area. So, despite what could've been described as total domination in the opening ten minutes, Barcelona only managed one shot, off target, by Luis Suarez after a corner kick.</p>
<p align="justify">Barcelona didn't test Julián for the first time until the 12th minute when Messi fired a long header on target that didn't pose a real threat to the score-line. The very next minute Alves sent a gorgeous ball over everybody to Suarez, a ball similar to the one against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> less than a month ago, but the Uruguayan forward couldn't exhibit the same control as he did then, and the chance was eventually blocked by Ángel Trujillo.</p>
<p align="justify">Even through Almeria mainly defended in the opening stages of the match, they had the best chance of the match so far, in the 15th minute. The always dangerous Thievy Bifouma dazzled past a few Barcelona defenders to get into the danger area where he prepared a chance for Wellington Silva. Wellington took the shot, but his attempt was slightly deflected, just enough for the ball to trickle past Bravo's far post.</p>
<p align="justify">After failing to score in the opening ten minutes of the game Barcelona couldn't maintain the high pressing game they showed early. As a result scoring chances were few and far between, and Almeria often managed to carry the ball over the midfield line, something unimaginable during Barcelona's dominance on the pitch. Even if Barcelona did get a shot off it was from a bad angle and, more often than not, it missed the target. A prime example of that was Pedro's try in the 22nd minute, when the Canary Islander's shot missed the target from a poor angle.</p>
<p align="justify">Barcelona might have dominated just about every statistical category, but their play, especially considering their lack of chances, didn't actually warrant a lead at this point. Almeria were quite happy to sit back and wait for their chance on the counter. Probably the most stunning stat was that not a single foul was committed in the opening 22 minutes. Adriano ended that stretch with a tactical foul near midfield to stop a counter attack.</p>
<p align="justify">Almeria continued to frustrate Barcelona's attackers with their organized defending. And with the pressure easing up, the visitors were able to control the ball much more than earlier in the game, when they saw as little as 20% of the ball and raised that to as high as 35% late in the half.</p>
<p align="justify">Barcelona, meanwhile, were left to pass around the perimeter and send hopeful crosses into the area. A couple of those could've caused danger, but Almeria did well to clear the ball away. In the 31st minute, however, Pedro managed to find Xavi in space, but his volley was aimed right at Julián. A few minutes before, Suarez created a great scoring chance out of nothing, easily dribbling past La Liga debutant Antonio Marín to get in front of the goalkeeper. But because Julián closed down his shooting angle to about zero, Suarez sent a very useful ball in front of the now empty goal. But Pedro failed to offer any support to his teammate and another chance went begging.</p>
<p align="justify">With team play often failing Barcelona in this game, Messi decided to take things into his own <s>hands</s> left foot in the 33rd minute. Receiving the ball deep on the right wing, Messi skipped past Édgar Méndez, took a few steps and took aim. His aim proved to be absolutely perfect as the little genius curled the ball past the outstretched Almeria goalkeeper and just inside the far post to put Barcelona into the lead.</p>
<p align="justify">Teams exchanged a couple of half chances over the last seven minutes of the half, with Almeria creating the first. Ximo Navarro escaped his man on the right wing and sent a very good cross to near the penalty spot. Wellington and former Barcelona man <span>Javier Espinosa</span> were there waiting, with the latter getting off a header, but his attempt was too weak to cause any real danger for the equalizer. Barcelona countered that with what should've been a one-on-one for Pedro, after a great Rakitić pass, but the out-of-form winger was let down by his ball control.</p>
<p align="justify">Barcelona seemed to have taken their foot of the gas pedal for the last minute of the game as first Trujillo tested <span>Claudio Bravo</span> with a header that again lacked power. Then, in a play that could've ended far worse than it did, Messi lost the ball in midfield and the speedy Thievy was off to the races. Mascherano decided to body check the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/espanyol">Espanyol</a> loanee to the ground to defuse the situation. The play did earn the defender a yellow card, but it was certainly the lesser evil. After the ensuing harmless free kick referee Alejandro José Hernández Hernández whistled for halftime which Barcelona won by the slimmest of margins.</p>
<p align="justify">Almeria started the second half with a more attacking mindset which tested the hosts' defense a couple of times, but also allowed Barcelona much more room to operate in attack. It was not only from live play that Barcelona were dangerous, they also threatened from set pieces. Quickly after the restart Messi sent a great corner kick to the near post where Suarez had time and space, but he missed the ball altogether. The clearance from the next corner kick came right into the wheelhouse of Adriano who tried his luck from 35-yards out, but Julián had no problems with the shot.</p>
<p align="justify">From another corner, five minutes later, Rakitić took a shot on target, but Julián made a good save. Despite having to survive some good scoring chances by Barcelona, Almeria didn't give up on their dream of their first points ever at the Camp Nou. Thievy always seemed to be the catalyst for Almeria and it was no different on the very next play after Rakitić's shot. The French-born player made his way past several Barcelona defenders, including Alves, but Alves recovered to steal the ball away before Thievy could get a shot off.</p>
<p align="justify">That steal actually started the play that would end in Barcelona doubling their lead. Barça's first goal came from a great solo play by Messi, the second came from a great solo play by Suarez. There were many similarities between the two goals. The play again came down the right side, the first defender was left out of position after a nice move, and the play was finished off with a great finish just inside the far post. Just about the only difference was that Julián actually managed to get a hand on the ball this time, but it was not enough to keep the ball from crossing the line.</p>
<p align="justify">Just before the one hour mark Rakitić came very close to adding to Barcelona's lead, but Julián made a very good save to keep the Croatian's low shot from finishing in the back of the net.</p>
<p align="justify">With a two goal lead in hand Lucho started looking beyond today's game and started preparing for next matches. First, in the 64th minute the Barcelona manager took off Alves and put Martin Montoya in. Three minutes later Rakitić was given the rest of the night off, as he was replaced by Rafinha.</p>
<p align="justify">The game lost some steam at this point. Almeria knew that scoring at least two goals was a long shot while Barcelona started to conserve their strength for future encounters. But that didn't mean that Barcelona wouldn't get the occasional good look on goal. After being just six minutes on the pitch Montoya did something that Alves barely managed to do the entire game, set up one of his teammates for a scoring chance. The young right-back somehow find Pedro amongst five defenders, but Pedro's shot couldn't get past the goalkeeper.</p>
<p align="justify">Five minutes later the game was put completely out of reach. Xavi sent an absolutely perfect ball in from a corner kick. In front of goal, Marc Bartra escaped his marker and got just enough of the ball for it to make its way inside of the post for the center-back's second goal of the season. Barcelona scored another goal five minutes later, after Adriano found Messi with a lovely cross, but the goal was ruled out for a foul Messi committed trying to get to the ball. Messi would have three more chances to add to his season goal tally from free kicks, but twice he hit the wall. The third time he fired off a better shot, but this time he was denied by a panther-like save by Julián.</p>
<p align="justify">Almeria seemed to have crawled on back in added time as Thievy scored with a gorgeous volley, but his goal was also ruled out for a foul. Messi might have been kept of the score-sheet in the second half, but the Argentine still managed to help Barcelona score one more goal, in the last minute of added time. Messi sent Pedro one-on-one with the goalkeeper, but, instead of doing everything himself, the winger unselfishly sent the ball to the other side where Suarez was left with a simple tap in finish into the empty net.</p>
<p align="justify">Barcelona will have little time to rest before their next game, on Saturday against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/sevilla">Sevilla</a>, but the Catalans managed to conserve some energy, especially in the second half, which will surely come in handy over the next few weeks.</p>
<p><iframe src="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/168kkqxZk-BiwvjQpEZUkJHdAq1GllH1TraivDzcBnXQ/viewform?embedded=true" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" frameborder="0" height="500" width="760">Loading...</iframe></p>
<h3>Roll Call</h3>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<thead>
<tr>
<th colspan="2">Roll Call Info</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="150">Total comments</td>
<td>785</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>Total commenters</td>
<td>55</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Commenter list</td>
<td>
<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/A.J.Khan">A.J.Khan</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Abdul%20S.">Abdul S.</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Anders%20Thomassen">Anders Thomassen</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Antonio%20Moreira">Antonio Moreira</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AraibKarim">AraibKarim</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Aveblaugrana">Aveblaugrana</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ayush%20Tiwari">Ayush Tiwari</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BDBarca">BDBarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BarcaBarca">BarcaBarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Barcasura">Barcasura</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BarcelonaCobayo1998">BarcelonaCobayo1998</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Bingiboy">Bingiboy</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Bostjan%20Cernensek">Bostjan Cernensek</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Cacho%20Cashman">Cacho Cashman</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Catalan_Blood">Catalan_Blood</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Delano%20Heerkens">Delano Heerkens</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DerkSensei">DerkSensei</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DraganChe">DraganChe</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Eddie%20Pundell">Eddie Pundell</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCBMessi">FCBMessi</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCB_Z8">FCB_Z8</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Imalwaysofftopic">Imalwaysofftopic</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Inder%20Methil">Inder Methil</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JordiBalboa">JordiBalboa</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/KingL10">KingL10</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/KiwiBarca">KiwiBarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Lapulga">Lapulga</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Navz">Navz</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Neyssi">Neyssi</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/PG9">PG9</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Piqu%C3%A9nbauer">Piquénbauer</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ragnar_Lothbrok">Ragnar_Lothbrok</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Rajesh1101s">Rajesh1101s</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Som-i-Serem">Som-i-Serem</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Sony13">Sony13</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Steven%20Cordero">Steven Cordero</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Swn.Cul%C3%A9">Swn.Culé</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Willis1984">Willis1984</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Yuro_Doosh">Yuro_Doosh</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/akash%20verma">akash verma</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/avyator">avyator</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/barca4life1273">barca4life1273</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/craig00000">craig00000</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/deendana">deendana</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/jabesche">jabesche</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ledhe">ledhe</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/luck-ycoltsfan19">luck-ycoltsfan19</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/milesbarca">milesbarca</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/oddsbodiSkins">oddsbodiSkins</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/semperty">semperty</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/shirishstha">shirishstha</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/shubham2806">shubham2806</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/syredeathtrooper">syredeathtrooper</a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>Story URLs</td>
<td>
<div><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/8/8370975/la-liga-fc-barcelona-vs-ud-almeria-live-game-thread">http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/8/8370975/la-liga-fc-barcelona-vs-ud-almeria-live-game-thread</a></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<thead>
<tr>
<th width="20">#</th> <th>Commenter</th> <th># Comments</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Delano%20Heerkens">Delano Heerkens</a></td>
<td>107</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>2</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Anders%20Thomassen">Anders Thomassen</a></td>
<td>64</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BarcaBarca">BarcaBarca</a></td>
<td>52</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Barcasura">Barcasura</a></td>
<td>49</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Bingiboy">Bingiboy</a></td>
<td>49</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>6</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/oddsbodiSkins">oddsbodiSkins</a></td>
<td>46</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/KiwiBarca">KiwiBarca</a></td>
<td>30</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>8</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/semperty">semperty</a></td>
<td>29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/syredeathtrooper">syredeathtrooper</a></td>
<td>21</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>10</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/shubham2806">shubham2806</a></td>
<td>21</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/craig00000">craig00000</a></td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>12</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Som-i-Serem">Som-i-Serem</a></td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/luck-ycoltsfan19">luck-ycoltsfan19</a></td>
<td>18</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>14</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Swn.Cul%C3%A9">Swn.Culé</a></td>
<td>17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Yuro_Doosh">Yuro_Doosh</a></td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>16</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/PG9">PG9</a></td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/avyator">avyator</a></td>
<td>13</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>18</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Cacho%20Cashman">Cacho Cashman</a></td>
<td>13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Eddie%20Pundell">Eddie Pundell</a></td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>20</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Neyssi">Neyssi</a></td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/AraibKarim">AraibKarim</a></td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>22</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/feeya7">feeya7</a></td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>23</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Steven%20Cordero">Steven Cordero</a></td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>24</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Willis1984">Willis1984</a></td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BDBarca">BDBarca</a></td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>26</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DerkSensei">DerkSensei</a></td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ayush%20Tiwari">Ayush Tiwari</a></td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>28</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Sony13">Sony13</a></td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>29</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/deendana">deendana</a></td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>30</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Ragnar_Lothbrok">Ragnar_Lothbrok</a></td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/milesbarca">milesbarca</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>32</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Lapulga">Lapulga</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>33</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Piqu%C3%A9nbauer">Piquénbauer</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>34</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCB_Z8">FCB_Z8</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>35</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/barca4life1273">barca4life1273</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>36</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/akash%20verma">akash verma</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>37</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Rajesh1101s">Rajesh1101s</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>38</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/FCBMessi">FCBMessi</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>39</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Inder%20Methil">Inder Methil</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>40</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Catalan_Blood">Catalan_Blood</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>41</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ledhe">ledhe</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>42</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/shirishstha">shirishstha</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>43</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/jabesche">jabesche</a></td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>44</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BarcelonaCobayo1998">BarcelonaCobayo1998</a></td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>45</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/DraganChe">DraganChe</a></td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>46</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/KingL10">KingL10</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>47</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Antonio%20Moreira">Antonio Moreira</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>48</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Bostjan%20Cernensek">Bostjan Cernensek</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>49</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Imalwaysofftopic">Imalwaysofftopic</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>50</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Aveblaugrana">Aveblaugrana</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>51</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JordiBalboa">JordiBalboa</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>52</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/A.J.Khan">A.J.Khan</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>53</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Navz">Navz</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>54</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Abdul%20S.">Abdul S.</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>55</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/footballfordoze">footballfordoze</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p></p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/8/8371307/la-liga-fc-barcelona-4-0-ud-almeria-match-reviewBostjan Cernensek2015-04-08T19:18:52+02:002015-04-08T19:18:52+02:00FC Barcelona vs UD Almeria: Live Game Thread
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fbSeRNGyZflnHmciWjKd4bhj6VU=/0x0:4915x3277/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46074924/GettyImages-463500492.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Ramos/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Live game thread for the La Liga match between Barcelona and Almeria.</p> <p align="center">La Liga: Jornada 30<br>Camp Nou, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a><br>Kickoff: Wednesday, 8 April 2015; 20:00 CET<br>Referee: Alejandro José Hernández Hernández</p>
<p align="justify">Line-ups:</p>
<p align="justify">FC Barcelona (4-3-3): 13. <span>Claudio Bravo</span>; 22. <span>Dani Alves</span>, 14. <span>Javier Mascherano</span>, 15. <span>Marc Bartra</span>, 21. Adriano Correia; 20. <span>Sergi Roberto</span>, 4. Ivan Rakitic, 6. Xavi Hernandez; 10. <span>Lionel Messi</span>, 9. Luis Suarez, 7. Pedro Rodriguez</p>
<p align="justify">Substitutes: 1. Marc-Andre ter Stegen, 24. Jeremy Mathieu, 2. Martin Montoya, 3. Gerard Pique, 12. Rafinha Alcantara, 8. Andres Iniesta, 11. Neymar</p>
<p align="justify">Coach: <span>Luis Enrique</span></p>
<p align="justify">***</p>
<p align="justify">UD Almeria (4-2-3-1):1. Julián Cuesta; 14. José Manuel Casado, 5. Ángel Trujillo, 4. Ximo Navarro, 28. Antonio Marín; 22. Thomas Partey, 24. <span>Javier Espinosa</span>; 17. Édgar Méndez, 15. Corona, 8. Wellington Silva; 9. Thievy Bifouma</p>
<p align="justify">Substitutes: 25. Rubén, 21. Mané, 29. José Angel, 19. Jonathan Zongo, 23. Fernando Soriano, 31. Ramon Azeez, 10. Tomer Hemed</p>
<p align="justify">Coach: Sergi Barjuan</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/8/8370975/la-liga-fc-barcelona-vs-ud-almeria-live-game-threadBostjan Cernensek2015-04-08T15:57:46+02:002015-04-08T15:57:46+02:00Barça Squad Named for La Liga Almería Match
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Ufn0ehiuZgM_E4x1X7XXXa2LeFI=/0x180:1995x1510/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46073658/GettyImages-468781900.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Alex Caparros/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The next <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> match is already upon us! In just a few hours, the <i>Blaugrana</i> open the Camp Nou doors to face <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/almeria">Almería</a> in a pivotal La Liga match that could temporarily increase the lead over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> to seven points in case of a win.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As we've been anticipating for a while, coach <span>Luis Enrique</span> is expected to heavily rotate the squad and use an alternative starting lineup. The squad list remains mainly untouched, as Enrique selected his favorite 18 for the game, with the exception of <span>Sergio Busquets</span>, who's suspended, and <span>Jordi Alba</span>, who's injured. Also injured is <span>Thomas Vermaelen</span>, while Douglas and Jordi Masip have not been named per coach's decision.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">These are the eighteen men named by Lucho for the match:</p>
<blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Goalkeepers: </b>1. Marc-André ter Stegen, 13. <span>Claudio Bravo</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Defenders: </b>2. Martín Montoya, 3. Gerard Piqué, 15. <span>Marc Bartra</span>, 21. Adriano, 22. <span>Dani Alves</span>, 24. Jérémy Mathieu</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Midfielders: </b>4. Ivan Rakitic, 6. Xavi Hernández, 8. Andrés Iniesta, 12. Rafinha Alcântara, 14. <span>Javier Mascherano</span>, 20. <span>Sergi Roberto</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Forwards: </b>7. Pedro Rodríguez, 9. Luis Suárez, 10. <span>Lionel Messi</span>, 11. Neymar Jr.</p>
</blockquote>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Expected Starting Lineup (4-3-3):</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Bravo; Montoya, Bartra, Mathieu, Adriano; Mascherano, Rakitic, Xavi; Messi, Suárez, Pedro</i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The match starts at 20:00 CET, and you can follow and comment all the action right here, at Barça Blaugranes.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>VISCA EL BARÇA!</b></p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/8/8369293/la-liga-barcelona-almeria-squad-listRenato Gonçalves2015-04-08T12:58:55+02:002015-04-08T12:58:55+02:00How to Watch: Barcelona vs Almeria
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<figcaption>Alex Caparros/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>After two weeks without a match, FC Barcelona will take to the field for the second time in less than 72 hours as they prepare to host UD Almeria at the Camp Nou in their first midweek La Liga fixture for nigh on seven months. That wasn't exactly a pleasant experience for the Blaugrana, who slumped to a goalless draw away to another Andalusian outfit, Malaga CF -- although hopefully, things will be better this time.</p>
<p>Certainly, the calibre of opposition is entirely different. Malaga are challenging for a UEFA Europa League qualification berth while UD Almeria are fighting just to stay in the division. Their 1-4 defeat against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/levante" class="sbn-auto-link">Levante</a> at the weekend has left them teetering in a precarious position as they occupy the final place in the relegation zone; a win could see them move further adrift of safety, depending on the result of today's clash between Deportivo La Coruna and Cordoba, a match that actually kicks off alongside our game tonight.</p>
<p>Can they upset the odds against the mighty FC Barcelona? We'll find out later tonight.</p>
<p><b>Match Date/Time: </b>Wednesday, April 8, 8.00 p.m. local time, 3.00 p.m. ET</p>
<p><b>Venue: </b><i>Camp Nou</i>, Barcelona, Catalunya</p>
<p><b>TV: </b>beIN Sports USA (US - English), beIN Sports en Espanol (U.S. - Spanish), beIN Sports Canada (Canada), Canal+ Liga / HD (Spain), Gol TV (Spain), Canal+ Yomvi (Spain), Star Sports HD 4 Asia (India), Sky Sports 5 / HD (UK)</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph5" align="justify"><b>Online: </b>beIN Sports Connect (U.S./Canada), fuboTV (U.S), SkyGo (UK)</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" align="justify">(<a href="http://www.livesoccertv.com/match/1259132/eibar-vs-barcelona/" target="_blank">Listings via LiveSoccerTV</a>)</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" align="justify">A quick note: you might have noticed fuboTV among the online stream listings. This is a very cool new site that provides a LEGAL, high-quality live streaming service that now includes beIN SPORTS. If you're not able to buy cable or you're not near your TV during <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> games, you can watch Barça online in HD at fuboTV for only $6.99 per month! <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641846&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fubo.tv%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.barcablaugranes.com%2F2015%2F4%2F8%2F8368827%2Fbarcelona-almeria-2015-la-liga-tv-schedule-live-online-streaming" target="_blank" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">Sign up</a> now!</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/8/8368827/barcelona-almeria-2015-la-liga-tv-schedule-live-online-streamingArron Duckling2015-04-08T10:41:38+02:002015-04-08T10:41:38+02:00Predict the Score: Barca vs Almeria
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<figcaption>Alex Caparros/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A chance for you to predict the score of tonight's La Liga encounter between FC Barcelona and UD Almeria at the Camp Nou</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">For the rest of the pack, the chase is on: FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> have a four point lead at the top of La Liga and it's down to the likes of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> and reigning, defending champions Atletico Madrid to catch them. How can they do that you ask? Well, all they can do is win their matches and pray for a Blaugrana slip-up and thus far, both teams have been up to the challenge. Of course, Real Madrid bounced back from their El Clasico defeat by eviscerating poor old <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/granada">Granada</a> CF at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday morning, while Atletico Madrid have gone two for two, picking up their most recent victory last night at home to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/real-sociedad">Real Sociedad</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As things stand, Atleti are six points back having played a game more than Barcelona; Real Madrid will remain four points behind at best when they kick-off against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/rayo-vallecano">Rayo Vallecano</a> later tonight. However, their late kick-off time means that Barcelona have an opportunity tonight against Almeria. Win, and the gap is temporarily extended to a massive seven points.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Either way, one would expect Real to ease past Rayo Vallecano, but you never know -- all that pressure involved with chasing a team that's now seven points clear, a tough atmosphere at Vallecas; stranger things have happened.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But for that to become reality, Barcelona must first do their bit and dispatch Almeria. The Andalusians are in turmoil at the moment having just named their third manager of the season in response to a crushing defeat against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/levante">Levante</a>; will Barca compound their misery, or can they bounce back in the most unlikeliest of fashions?</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/8/8368781/la-liga-fc-barcelona-vs-ud-almeria-predict-the-scoreArron Duckling2015-04-07T22:49:30+02:002015-04-07T22:49:30+02:00La Liga: Barca vs Almeria: Match Preview
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<figcaption>Denis Doyle/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A preview of Barcelona's latest La Liga fixture, a home clash with UD Almeria at the Camp Nou as the Blaugrana look to temporarily extend their lead over Real Madrid to seven points</p> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">No rest for the wicked, eh? Less than 72 hours after narrowly defeating <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/celta-vigo">Celta Vigo</a> at the Estadio Municipal de Balaidos, FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> must take to the field again, this time in front of a welcoming crowd at the Camp Nou as they prepare to host UD Almeria in Wednesday’s early evening kick-off. On paper, this should be one of Barcelona’s easiest remaining matches – yet we all know just how unpredictable football can be, and therefore the Blaugrana will have to be at their best to avoid an upset.</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Indeed, they might well see this match as an opportunity to make a statement. After <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> utterly obliterated <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/granada">Granada</a> CF 9-1 at the weekend, Barça’s 1-0 win over Celta was viewed negatively by some and a comfortable victory of their own over Almeria may go some way to appease those critics. There’s probably the question of whether we should even consider their opinion, what with our four point leas atop La Liga, but hey, I wouldn’t argue with an emphatic win either way.</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">And if <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/levante">Levante</a> UD could register a three-goal win over Almeria at the weekend, they why shouldn’t we expect something similar from Barcelona tomorrow?</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">The fallout from the <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/6/8352437/la-liga-news-6-april-2015-cristiano-ronalod-scores-five-in-granada?_ga=1.184406053.2076346814.1396342924" target="_blank">embarrassing 4-1 defeat</a> has been immediate and predictable; out goes Juan Ignacio Martinez and in comes former Barcelona full-back, Sergi for Almeria’s second managerial change of the season. Perhaps because of the chopping and changing, club chairman Alfonso Garcia is yet to acknowledge the cold, hard facts relating to his team’s situation: they just might not be good enough to survive in La Liga this season.</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">After all, they barely survived the drop last season, only securing their safety on the final day of the season with a goalless draw against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://athletic.theoffside.com/">Athletic Bilbao</a>. With their place in La Liga likely to go down to the final <i>Jornada </i>once again, Almeria will not be looking forward to the prospect of squaring off against Barcelona in their current form. </p>
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<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">Brace yourselves folks…that’s right, tomorrow’s match could lead to a long overdue debut for Thomas Vermaelen. <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/7/8359157/fc-barcelona-news-7-april-2015-thomas-vermaelen-continues-to-train-as?_ga=1.150421301.2076346814.1396342924" target="_blank">The Belgian defender has worked his way back to fitness</a> after a multitude of injury problems and while he was not included in the squad that made the trip to Vigo, we have been assured that Vermaelen is indeed ready to make his comeback – and on paper, tomorrow’s match represents the perfect opportunity. </p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Albeit not from the start though; after such a lengthy spell on the sidelines there is no doubt that the former Arsenal captain is not yet remotely match fit, nor will he be familiar enough with the intricacies of the Barcelona system. All that being said he’s probably ready for a cameo – assuming that <span>Luis Enrique</span> actually wishes to use him. With Gerard Pique, Jeremy Mathieu and <span>Marc Bartra</span> all in fine form, there’s no reason to rush Vermaelen’s return – or force one of the aforementioned trio into the stands.</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">With a tough match against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/sevilla">Sevilla</a> and of course the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals against Paris Saint-Germain on the horizon, we should probably expect some rotation from Luis Enrique tomorrow – although one name we can be certain to see on the teamsheet is <span>Claudio Bravo</span>. </p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">The Chilean shot-stopper wasn’t called upon all too often against Celta Vigo on Sunday, but he performed admirably when Celta did venture forward and his 16<sup>th</sup> clean sheet of the season helped Barcelona secure their 23<sup>rd</sup> victory in 29 La Liga matches. Understated, but brutally effective and remarkably consistent; Bravo might not be "numero uno" like Victor Valdes was, but in some ways "numero trece" <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/7/8357421/claudio-bravo-victor-valdes-statistical-comparison?_ga=1.116790277.2076346814.1396342924" target="_blank">has been an upgrade</a>.</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">In defense, <span>Dani Alves</span> may continue at right-back although the temptation for Luis Enrique must be to hand Martin Montoya a start, knowing full well that Alves will be suspended for our crucial tie with PSG next week. It would be best to hand Montoya some match practice before that encounter, and equally, we want him to be well rested – so that probably rules out the weekend’s match with Sevilla. Alongside Montoya, I expect to see a Catalan partnership of Gerard Pique and Marc Bartra, with Adriano Correia spoiling the La Masia party by starting at left-back.</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">With Sergio Busquets suspended for picking up his fifth yellow card of the season against Celta Vigo, <span>Javier Mascherano</span> is expected to return from his suspension to rotate back in at pivote – and with that, I think Lucho has the freedom to start our club captain Xavi Hernandez. After all, Xavi earned his place once again with a superb performance off the bench against Celta; plus, I’m interested to see him partnered with Ivan Rakitic in the Barça midfield, which seems the most likely scenario tomorrow.</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Meanwhile the attack continues to select itself on paper due to the status of the front three, but there is a case to be made for some rotation; whether that means a rare start for Pedro or a <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/7/8360499/barcelona-almeria-traning-session-munir-rotations?_ga=1.150421301.2076346814.1396342924" target="_blank">welcome back from the wilderness for Munir El Haddadi</a>. Then again, we’ll probably just see <span>Lionel Messi</span>, Luis Suarez and Neymar again – first world problems, am I right?</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>ALMERIA</b></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">There’s no doubt that Almeria don’t have that problem – getting sick of seeing a star-studded attacking triumvirate just isn’t on the agenda for the Almeria fanbase. Instead, they’re sweating over their status in La Liga, more so than ever after that shocking performance against fellow strugglers, Levante. The good news is that Almeria are actually quite good on their travels – they’ve picked up nearly twice as many points on the road versus at home – the bad news is that they’re without a win in their last seven.</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Oh, and did I mention that while they are quite good away from home, Almeria struggle to make an impact when they travel to big guns? <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.villarrealusa.com/">Villarreal</a>, Atletico Madrid, Athletic Bilbao, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/valencia">Valencia</a> – the list goes on and on, all four registered victories at home against Almeria. Heck, their last trip to Barcelona ended dismally in a 3-0 defeat and they were only facing RCD <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/espanyol">Espanyol</a>. Stranger things have happened, but I wouldn’t be placing any faith in an upset tomorrow.</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>FORM GUIDE</b></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona: WWWWWW</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Almeria: LDLDLL</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>LAST MEETING</b></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">UD Almeria 1-2 FC Barcelona – 8<sup>th</sup> November 2014 – La Liga</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Lowly Almeria actually took the lead in this one courtesy of a breakaway goal from Thievy, but Barcelona finally got their act together late on and secured the comeback victory courtesy of goals from Neymar and <span>Jordi Alba</span> and a sensational performance off the bench from Luis Suarez.</p>
<p></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): Bravo; Montoya, Bartra, Pique, Adriano; Mascherano, Xavi, Rakitic; Messi, Suarez, Neymar</p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span>Almeria (4-2-3-1): Ruben; Ximo, Trujillo, Dos Santos, Casado; Verza, Corona; Edgar, Soriano, Wellington; Hemed<p></p></span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b>MATCH PREDICTION</b></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">This one should be a little more straight-forward but beware "new manager syndrome" – I’m going for a 4-0 win based on the form book, but wouldn’t be surprised to see something closer, like a 2-0 if Sergi gets his tactics right. </p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2015/4/7/8366411/la-liga-fc-barcelona-vs-ud-almeria-match-previewArron Duckling