FC Barcelona surged past Newcastle United with a commanding seven-goal performance, following a challenging initial half at Camp Nou.
Joan Garcia – 6.5
He was not truly at fault for either of the conceded goals, and the other saves he was required to make were relatively straightforward. Garcia was substituted in the final ten minutes due to a calf issue.
Eric Garcia – 5.5
It’s difficult to be overly critical, as he visibly struggled physically. Nevertheless, he was already facing difficulties against Harvey Barnes and couldn’t prevent the cross that led to Anthony Elanga’s opening goal. He was replaced after just 22 minutes.
Pau Cubarsi – 7
Both Cubarsi and Gerard Martin found themselves somewhat exposed in the first half as Newcastle exploited the flanks. However, it was noticeable that Anthony Gordon posed no significant threat against him.
Gerard Martin – 8.5
He effectively challenged opposing runners in the penalty area and delivered a superb pass to Raphinha, which contributed to Fermin Lopez’s goal. He also provided an unconventional yet clever assist for Marc Bernal. A solid display overall; Martin and Cubarsi currently form a strong defensive partnership.
Joao Cancelo – 4.5
While he had a couple of positive moments in attack, Cancelo was thoroughly exposed on Newcastle’s goals. The first goal involved a tricky run for him to track, but the second was entirely due to Cancelo’s momentary lapse in concentration.
Pedri – 8
Pedri truly began to excel in the second half as more space opened up. Although not as dominant as in the first leg, he remained Barcelona’s most effective player on the ball. He initially seemed to struggle against Newcastle’s midfield in the opening period.
Marc Bernal – 7
He once again showcased his goal-scoring instinct in the first half, appearing unmarked to score Barcelona’s second goal. He was a bit slow against players like Sandro Tonali early on, but similar to his teammates, he learned to assert himself more effectively in the second half.
Lamine Yamal – 9
It was a truly dynamic game for Lamine Yamal, who delivered three or four exceptional passes, setting up Raphinha, Fermin Lopez, and Robert Lewandowski. He also found the back of the net himself, despite missing an earlier sitter. Playing more centrally in the number 10 role, he scored two goals from this position.
Fermin Lopez – 8.5
A genuinely strong performance. He didn’t quite achieve the pressing intensity he might have desired in the first half, but his runs behind the defense proved to be a crucial element for Barcelona in many respects. His finish was excellent, and he was instrumental in the penalty, Raphinha’s first goal, and Lewandowski’s headed goal.
Raphinha – 9
He opened the scoring for Barcelona with a brilliant run and finish, and his intelligent link-up play with Lamine Yamal caused significant problems for Newcastle’s defense. His pressing was effective, and his assist for Fermin Lopez was perfectly executed. This was a classic Raphinha performance, as he was involved in five of the goals.
Robert Lewandowski – 7
This was one of the most perplexing ratings of the season. If you disregard his header and his superb finish, his performance might be rated very low. He was slow in the first half, his touch was off, and he missed two clear chances that Barcelona cannot afford to waste. Yet, he still scored a brace, with his second goal featuring a lovely run.
Substitutes
Ronald Araujo – 6
He improved as the game progressed, but he will likely want to avoid re-watching Newcastle’s second goal. He finished the match seemingly requiring a concussion evaluation and still appears somewhat uncomfortable at right-back.
Xavi Espart – 7
For a defender, not standing out too much in your initial appearances is often a good sign. Xavi Espart was composed and tidy, making a couple of clever tactical fouls.
Ferran Torres – 6.5
He didn’t have a significant impact, either positive or negative. He made a couple of decent runs but failed to capitalize on them.
Dani Olmo – 7
He delivered some excellent passes at times and made a few good runs. Aside from Araujo, the game was largely decided by the time Olmo entered, but he acquitted himself well.
Wojciech Szczesny – N/A
He came on for seven minutes and executed one nice turn to escape pressure.
