FOOTBALL

What we learnt from the Las Vegas El Clasico

Published

2 years ago

July 25, 2022

admin

Barcelona won their second straight game in the United States tour thanks to a narrow 1-0 victory over Real Madrid at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

The Blaugrana achieved the victory thanks to a fantastic goal by Raphinha.

It was high-level football for a friendly played in very hot weather.

Overall, Barça were the better team, using possession more efficiently and moving the ball very fast from side to side.

The Raphinha factor

Raphinha was involved in everything good Barca did.

Despite going one-on-one against Antonio Rudiger, one of the best defenders in the world, the Brazilian was a constant danger.

He also scored the lone goal of the match after Éder Militao made a bad pass and gifted the Brazilian the ball in a great position.

Raphinha fired a rocket into the top corner to fire Barca ahead.

After his move from Leeds United, it’s now becoming clear why Raphinha held out for Barcelona’s interest instead of joining Chelsea.

The Brazillian has already collected his second goal for Barcelona.

He did get some help from a bad cross from Eder Militao but that finish was something that can’t be taught.

His movement is also top-class and he is always looking to do something when he gets the ball, which augurs well for Barcelona’s chances this season.

The Benzema factor

Benzema missed the match due to starting preseason late so that he could get an extended holiday.

However, without a recognized forward, Real Madrid struggled in attack.

Over-reliance on Benzema could hurt Real Madrid badly.

Vinicius Junior links well with the Frenchman as the two clearly understand what the other wants to do.

However, without Benzema, Vinicius can struggle to make an impact.

Luka Jovic is now gone to Fiorentina which is why Ancelotti has been testing Hazard as a false nine.

Lack of an adequate replacement for Benzema is probably the biggest weakness for Los Blancos.

It’s something that will need to be addressed as Benzema can’t feature in every game.

Marco Asensio came in for Hazard but had the same issues going up against Barcelona’s defense as he’s more comfortable on the wing.

Hazard looks finished

Eden Hazard is still hoping to find a properly defined role in this Real Madrid squad.

He featured as a false nine as he tries to regains fitness after undergoing surgery to remove a plate in his leg, related to a fracture.

Sadly, Hazard hasn’t been able to make his mark since moving to Real Madrid from Chelsea.

He has only made 66 appearances for Real Madrid so far, scored six goals and assisted 10 more.

Based on yesterday’s display, it looks like a tough road ahead for the Belgian.

Dest Dembele combo

Sergino Dest had a bright showing in the second half when he entered for Ronald Araujo.

While Raphinha was off the pitch, Dest and Dembele combined brilliantly.

They had a telepathic understanding of their overlaps so Dest could power forward and create chances in attack.

The sheer quality of Frenkie de Jong

The most noteworthy aspect of the half from a Barca perspective was Frenkie De Jong once again playing center-back.

He produced a sterling display which underlined his versatility and reminded fans why Barca spent big money on him.

If Frenkie managed to be productive out of position, he can surely find a way to integrate himself into this squad, even if his position has been taken over by Gavi.

Barca created many chances

Even when Barcelona didn’t score, they tested Thibaut Courtois heavily in Vegas.

When Ousmane Dembele came into the match in the second half, he was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet.

Courtois ended up with six saves as Barcelona’s press and attack were relentless.

Barcelona overpowered the midfield of Camavinga and Tchouameni in the first half and Real Madrid didn’t get a shot on target during the match.

There was improvement when Toni Kroos and Luka Modric entered but Barcelona were on a different level.

Even Franck Kessie missed a one-on-one with Thibaut Courtois in the 70th minute.

This bodes well for Xavi who wants Barcelona to play an attacking game with lots of possession.

The football fans over the world must be thrilled with this display of attacking football from the famed Spanish club.

Real Madrid squad

Courtois; Vázquez (Odriozola 70’), Militão (Vallejo 62’), Alaba (Nacho 46’), Rüdiger (Mendy 46’); Valverde (Modric 46’), Tchouameni (Casemiro 46’), Camavinga (Kroos 46’); Rodrygo (Ceballos 70’), Hazard (Asensio 46’), Vinicius (Mariano 70’)

Barcelona squad

Ter Stegen (Peña 62’); Araujo (Dest 62’), Christensen (De Jong 46’), Eric (Piqué 62’), Alba (Balde 46’); Gavi (Kessie 46’), Busquets (Nico 62’), Pedri (Roberto 62’); Raphinha (Memphis 62’), Lewandowski (Aubameyang 46’), Fati (Dembélé 46’)

Goal: Raphinha (27’)

FC Goa

FC Goa Triumphs Over Mohun Bagan with a 2-1 Victory

Published

3 days ago

December 21, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan! FC Goa secured a memorable 2-1 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League at Fatorda Stadium. This high-stakes encounter ended Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten streak, marking a significant moment in the league.

Brison Fernandes opened the scoring for FC Goa in the 13th minute, assisted by Borja Herrera. His shot deflected off Mohun Bagan’s Tom Aldred, giving Goa an early lead. Despite pressing attacks, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on opportunities during the first half, keeping FC Goa ahead.

The second half saw Mohun Bagan equalize through Dimitrios Petratos’ penalty, awarded after a handball by Armando. With the match level, momentum shifted briefly in favor of Mohun Bagan. However, FC Goa struck again in the 68th minute as Brison Fernandes headed in Herrera’s precise cross, sealing the lead and eventual victory for the home side. FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan!

FC Goa’s defense stood firm during the closing stages, with Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia effectively countering Mohun Bagan’s attempts to find another equalizer. This win elevated FC Goa to third place in the league standings with 22 points from 12 matches, showcasing their strong form this season.

The match underscored FC Goa’s resilience and tactical discipline, while Mohun Bagan will aim to bounce back from this setback. Fans were treated to an exciting contest, reflecting the competitive spirit of the league.

FC Goa

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

Published

3 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant! The Indian Super League (ISL) promises an intense showdown as FC Goa faces league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant this Friday at Fatorda. With playoff positions at stake, both teams are set for a thrilling encounter.

FC Goa aims to break into the top three with a win, continuing their unbeaten six-match streak. Striker Armando Sadiku leads the Goa attack with eight goals in ten matches, while midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic add creativity. Young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari’s three clean sheets in five matches provide defensive assurance. FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant!

Mohun Bagan, atop the league with 26 points, has relied on Jamie Maclaren’s scoring consistency and Greg Stewart’s midfield mastery. Although Stewart will miss the match due to injury, the Mariners boast six clean sheets this season, anchored by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.

Both teams have impressive records, with Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season. The match could define playoff aspirations as Mohun Bagan aims to solidify their position, and Goa seeks to climb the rankings. Fans anticipate a tightly contested game between two strong sides showcasing Indian football’s growing quality.

The match is critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations. FC Goa looks to capitalize on their home advantage and attacking prowess, while Mohun Bagan seeks to extend their dominance at the top of the league. With FC Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season, the battle promises to be a showcase of quality football.

Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes clash, which could significantly impact the league’s playoff picture. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, ensuring a thrilling contest.

FC Goa

Mohun Bagan SG and FC Goa Face Off in ISL 2024-25 Thriller

Published

3 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

Mohun Bagan SG faces FC Goa in a thrilling ISL 2024-25 encounter, promising intense action and crucial league implications.

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 features a highly anticipated clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa at Fatorda’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. Both teams come into this encounter in solid form, aiming to strengthen their campaigns at a crucial juncture in the season.

Mohun Bagan leads the standings with an unbeaten streak, registering seven wins and a draw in ISL 2024-25. Their defensive strength is evident, having kept six clean sheets. FC Goa, sitting fourth on the table, boasts a dynamic attacking style, with nine different players contributing goals this season.

This battle between Mohun Bagan’s resolute defense and Goa’s attacking versatility promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Goa seeks to overcome the league leaders and secure vital points to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan looks to extend its dominance and consolidate its position at the top.

Key players to watch include Mohun Bagan’s defensive stalwarts and Goa’s offensive playmakers. Both sides have demonstrated their capability to adapt to challenging situations, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. With the mid-season point approaching, the match carries significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.

Fans can expect an intense, action-packed game as two of the ISL’s top teams vie for supremacy. Mohun Bagan’s strategic discipline will be tested against Goa’s creative and relentless attacks. This matchup is a must-watch for football enthusiasts, showcasing the best of Indian football talent.