Paco Alcacer who had been ignored for so long under Valverde this season, scored a brace to help his side secure the win and keep their unbeaten run intact. In a rain drenched match at Camp Nou, Barcelona completely dominated the early proceedings of the match and played some of their best football under Valverde.
However, despite all the possession and goalscoring chances, they had nothing to show for it for a long while. That changed when Paco drove the team into the lead in the closing moments of the first half with a cool finish, showing the temperament that star striker Suarez has lacked all season.
In the second half, Barca seemed to turn down the momentum and that allowed Sevilla to catch them on a corner routine. Standout performer in defence, Guido Pizzarro, rose above Pique to head the ball home and equalise. Their relief didn’t last long though as Ivan Rakitic picked out Alcacer from an inch perfect cross, with the poacher being on hand to finish it off and secure his team the win.
Here’s how the players fared against Sevilla.
The keeper didn’t have much to do but was on hand to save a couple of attempts on goal. He was helpless in avoiding Sevilla’s equaliser but largely remained untested.
The Portuguese provided stability on the right flank and helped Rakitic’s role in the midfield. He was decent on the night but wasn’t too impressive.
Pique had a decent game and lurked forward every now and then. He also hit the crossbar from one attempt just after he was beaten to the header by Pizzarro for the equaliser.
Made a lot of great interceptions and imposed himself physically on multiple occasions. Lost the ball on one occasion which let Muriel through, but picked his game up later.
Alba was all over the pitch with his surging up and down runs. Just lacked precision on his final passes upfront.
Had a classic Busquets game, imposing his mark all over the game. Beautiful turns, touches and passes all around.
Rakitic had a rare good game. Was involved in a few chances and also assisted Alcacer’s goal with a brilliant cross.
Helped dominate the early proceedings and carved out some half decent chances with glorious through balls and long balls.
Alcacer had an excellent game. Looked very sharp and scored the two goals. He is a better strike option than Suarez right now based on their forms and Valverde should give him more game time.
Even without scoring or assisting, took the game by the scruff of its neck. Was a constant threat to the Sevilla defence with his mazy runs, precision dribbles, odd chances and assist attempts.
His poor run of form continues and to be honest, Suarez doesn’t seem even half the player he was in his prime. Needs to pick up his game.
Came on to replace Iniesta and was involved in some good buildup play .
Had the chance to score the third, but was unable to do so. Was fouled in the box, although the penalty wasn’t given.
Came on in the 87th minute to secure the lead.
Twitter was a happy place after Barca’s win and here’s how the fans reacted to the performance:
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