Barca News Network
·4 December 2024
In partnership with
Yahoo sportsBarca News Network
·4 December 2024
FC Barcelona have finally felt the sweet taste of victory again following their recent game against Mallorca. Ahead of the match itself, there was a sense that La Blaugrana wanted to make a comeback and recover their form in this game. Ultimately, that is exactly what Hansi Flick’s Barcelona ended up doing.
However, without a doubt, it was clear to see that the German coach’s strongest eleven being available at his disposal definitely helped out. Even with Robert Lewandowski benched for this game to give him some rest, Flick fielded a strong enough line-up to get the right result.
Yet, even with so many top players out on the field, Lamine Yamal stood out against Mallorca. As highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, the 17-year-old Barcelona winger may have proved the argument that his team was dependent on him for victory, but did so in a way that guaranteed the result that the club wanted desperately.
By coming to Barça’s rescue once again, Yamal made it clear that the team does not mind having to count on his talent to bail them out if that is how it has to be.
In the last few games, three consecutive matches in which Barcelona dropped points, his absence was clearly felt and the questions being raised about the team’s ability without him carried a sense of legitimacy to them.
Yet, Hansi Flick was careful and cautious with Yamal’s recovery from the ankle injury he suffered against Red Star Belgrade in the UEFA Champions League almost a month ago.
After a long wait, he finally featured in the second half against Las Palmas in La Blaugrana’s previous outing, but it was clear to see that he lacked match fitness.
Now, however, he started the match against Mallorca from the very beginning. Initially, he struggled to make an impact and he seemed rusty as well. However, as time went on, he grew into the game and his match-winning influence became undeniable.
By winning the crucial penalty in the second half that let Barcelona take the lead, Yamal already gave a taste of what was to come.
Not too long after that, the €150m-rated Spaniard provided a stunning Trivela assist that Raphinha would end up converting for his brace. As if that was not enough, however, he also created a sensational play that allowed Barcelona to score another goal later on as well.
This performance, and a fully fit Yamal, is a true blessing for Hansi Flick. His team has already dropped several important points in La Liga, and there is simply no more room for error.
Now, with Real Madrid also close by in the league standings, La Blaugrana need to ensure victories from here onwards, and that seems quite possible with Yamal back in action.