Barcelona vs Atlanta, Barcelona were left frustrated as they surrendered the lead twice to draw 2-2 against Atalanta in their final Champions League league phase match. Despite a brilliant performance from Lamine Yamal, who scored and created several chances, Hansi Flick’s side failed to secure top spot in their group.
Barcelona started slowly, allowing Atalanta to create early chances, and the Italian side thought they had taken the lead in the 36th minute through Davide Zappacosta, but VAR ruled him offside. Just seconds later, Barca capitalized on a counterattack, with Raphinha setting up Yamal, who rounded the goalkeeper and slotted the ball into the net.
However, Atalanta refused to back down and found an equalizer in the 67th minute, when Ederson skipped past Pedri and struck a stunning shot past Wojciech Szczesny. Five minutes later, Barcelona restored their lead, thanks to Ronald Araujo’s header from a Raphinha corner, but Mario Pasalic responded for Atalanta, holding off Jules Kounde and Araujo before finishing past Szczesny.
Despite late pressure from Barcelona, including near misses from Ferran Torres and Fermin Lopez, the game ended in a draw, leaving Barca to settle for second place in their group.
Barcelona vs Atlanta: Barcelona’s Champions League Frustration Continues
This draw means that Barcelona missed out on finishing first in their Champions League group, which could lead to a more difficult draw in the knockout stages. Hansi Flick’s side showed flashes of brilliance but struggled defensively, with Lewandowski misfiring and Szczesny failing to inspire confidence in goal.
While Lamine Yamal’s goal was a highlight, Barcelona’s defensive issues and lack of composure in key moments once again came back to haunt them.
Barcelona vs Atalanta Player Ratings
Goalkeeper & Defense
Wojciech Szczesny – 5/10
Made an early save but should have done better with Pasalic’s equalizer, which went through his legs.
Jules Kounde – 5/10
Struggled to deal with Atalanta’s pressing game, leaving too many gaps in defense.
Ronald Araujo – 6/10
Scored a crucial header but had a tough time dealing with Atalanta’s physical forwards.
Eric Garcia – 5/10
Looked vulnerable against Atalanta’s attack, failing to provide stability alongside Araujo.
Alejandro Balde – 7/10
Defended well and provided support in attack, linking up effectively with Yamal.
Midfield
Frenkie de Jong – 5/10
Kept the ball well but slowed down attacks with too many backward passes.
Pedri – 6/10
Struggled defensively, allowing Ederson to breeze past him for Atalanta’s first goal, but showed calmness in possession.
Gavi – 6/10
Started slowly but improved in the second half, providing more energy and movement.
Attack
Lamine Yamal – 8/10
Barcelona’s best player on the night. Opened the scoring with a well-taken goal and created several chances.
Robert Lewandowski – 3/10
A disastrous night for the Polish striker. Missed a golden opportunity and looked off the pace.
Raphinha – 7/10
Provided two assists and looked dangerous in attack, linking up well with Yamal.
Substitutes & Manager
Fermin Lopez – 5/10
Struggled to make an impact despite getting into good positions.
Ferran Torres – 6/10
Had a header go over the bar and forced a save late in the game.
Pau Cubarsi – 6/10
Looked composed after coming on in the final 20 minutes.
Marc Casado – N/A
Played only a few minutes.
Pau Victor – N/A
Replaced Yamal in stoppage time.
Hansi Flick – 6/10
His team created chances, but defensive errors and missed opportunities cost them the win.
What’s Next for Barcelona?
With their Champions League group stage campaign over, Barcelona must now focus on La Liga while preparing for a tough Round of 16 opponent. Flick will need to address their defensive frailties and find a way to get Lewandowski firing again if Barca hopes to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion: Barcelona Must Improve in Key Areas
Barcelona’s 2-2 draw against Atalanta exposed familiar defensive issues and missed attacking opportunities. Despite Lamine Yamal’s brilliance, the team’s failure to close out games continues to be a concern.
With tougher challenges ahead in the Champions League, Hansi Flick must tighten up his defense and ensure his forwards, especially Lewandowski, regain their scoring touch. Barcelona’s ambitions remain high, but defensive discipline and consistency will be key if they want to go deep in the tournament.
🎙️ HANSI FLICK: “We have potential.” pic.twitter.com/QCHfzmGAVn
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 30, 2025
FAQs: Barcelona vs Atalanta Player Ratings
1. Who was Barcelona’s best player against Atalanta?
Lamine Yamal was the standout performer, scoring the opening goal and creating multiple chances.
2. Why did Barcelona struggle against Atalanta?
Defensive errors, lack of control in midfield, and Lewandowski’s poor finishing contributed to their struggles.
3. How did Robert Lewandowski perform?
Lewandowski had a night to forget, missing a clear chance and failing to make an impact.
4. What does this result mean for Barcelona’s Champions League campaign?
Barcelona finished second in their group, which could mean a tougher draw in the Round of 16.
5. What’s next for Barcelona?
Barcelona will shift focus to La Liga before awaiting their Champions League knockout stage draw.
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