By Barcelona traveled to Elche in southeast Spain for a clash with the titans match. Before the match began, 55 points were separating the two teams; unsurprisingly, it increased to 58 points by the end of the evening.
Ronald Araujo’s header found Robert Lewandowski in the box unguarded in the first half, and he scored the opening goal for the Catalans.
Yet as Elche attempted to press hard to draw even, Barcelona’s wingers and midfielders exposed their defense. Ansu Fati intercepted the ball in the 56th minute, and Lewandowski added a second goal ten minutes later.
In the 70th minute, a beautiful finish by Ferran Torres put an end to the match for good.
Barça Universal checks all those wearing the Senyera tonight after the game and with Barcelona leading the table by 15 points.
7:00 Marc-Andre ter Stegen
had little to do in the box as Elche only managed two shots on goal for the duration of the game.
Jules Kounde: seven
As usual, excellent defensive work, stopping all wing development. also nearly scored, but the attempt was stopped at the line.
7.5 Ronald Araujo
The Uruguayan played well before the next El Clasico in the middle of the week. got credit for the first goal’s assist.
Marcos Alonso: 8
Another top-notch display from Marcos Alonso, who cleared everything in his way, and was also faultless in possession. Long balls, switches, line-breaking passes, the Spaniard had the entire arsenal today.
Jordi Alba: 8.5
Added solid offensive depth from the wing, creating a couple of chances. Also had a last-man tackle to go along with his solid game.
Gavi: 9
Arguably the man of the match tonight, Gavi was everywhere in the midfield, recovering balls to start counter attacks. He was also unflustered against Elche’s mid-block, playing the ball out with ease. Ended up with an assist, as well.
Eric Garcia: 7
His first game as a pivot, and he was largely solid throughout. Positionally a bit suspect at times, but progressively solid as expected.
Sergi Roberto: 7
Made a few line-breaking runs through the Elche midfield, and created danger in the final third. Could have had an assist on any other day.
Ferran Torres: 8.5
Playing in his preferred right-winger role, Ferran was brilliant. Created three chances, got an assist, and then a goal to cap off a solid performance.
Robert Lewandowski: 8.5
Could have had a hattrick, but that does not, in any way, take away from his super finishing tonight. Took it upon himself to break the deadlock from an impossible angle, and then added another on the counter.
Ansu Fati: 7
Was a bit flustered in the first-half, but eventually got the goal that should be huge for his confidence. Has to do better with his chances, though.
SUBSTITUTES:
Franck Kessie: 6
Did well to come on and help maintain the lead.
Pablo Torre: 5
Had around 15 minutes to make the difference – which is not a lot -, but he should be doing better with his passing choice.
Aleix Garrido: N/A
Did not get to do a lot on his debut.
