Getting again to enjoying soccer after the winter break can result in some unusual outcomes, however Barcelona averted dropping factors in a 2-0 derby win towards Espanyol. Hansi Flick’s workforce struggled to hit the targets within the first half, giving their rivals hope that they’d be capable to get all three factors, however that was dashed within the second half with Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski discovering the again of the online within the second half of play.
As a result of LaLiga having a winter break, Barcelona’s final match was on Dec. 21, and whereas the day off did give the gamers the chance to reset, it additionally meant that there was loads of rust to shake off in a foul match to do it in. The Derbi Barceloni has seen the 2 sides meet 219 occasions, and whereas Barcelona have received 129 of these conferences, Espanyol are a facet on the rise, pushing for a Champions League place within the league.
Barcelona keeper Joan Garcia additionally felt the warmth after crossing rivalry strains to develop into the beginning keeper for Barca in the summertime. He was booed closely and referred to as a rat by followers, however would not let that cease him from making six saves through the match en path to a clear sheet for Barcelona.
Within the first half, Espanyol had been unfortunate to not rating, they usually held Barcelona to just one shot on the right track earlier than Flick made an vital change on the half, introducing Fermin Lopez for Marcus Rashford. Fermin Lopez ended up aiding each of Barcelona’s objectives to assist maintain their title cost going.
Whereas Actual Madrid nonetheless have a match to play on Sunday towards Actual Betis, Barcelona have opened a seven-point lead atop LaLiga whereas profitable their final eight matches in all competitions. Even their defensive points have been higher since Garcia’s return to the lineup, maintaining clear sheets in three consecutive matches league matches and 4 straight video games general. That defensive enchancment is what can be vital in holding off Actual Madrid.
Xabi Alonso taking on Actual Madrid forward of this season was supposed to extend strain within the title race, however as Barcelona’s hole atop LaLiga widens each in factors and purpose distinction, the place Barcelona have a purpose distinction of 33 in comparison with Actual Madrid’s 20, it feels just like the league is changing into Barcelona’s to lose.
That success is one thing that may nonetheless have to translate into the Champions League, the place Barcelona are among the many contenders to win all the factor. Their excessive line has induced points at occasions, however when Garcia is making saves like those that he pulled off towards his former membership, it will not matter what number of defenders Barcelona have up the pitch.
Subsequent up, Barca can have their first shot at silverware this season, taking over Athletic Membership within the Supercopa de España semifinal on Wednesday, Jan. 7.
