Kounde Shines: Barcelona vs Crvena Zvezda Ratings
Barcelona secured a comfortable 2-0 victory against Crvena Zvezda in the Champions League, with Jules Kounde delivering a stellar performance that solidified his status as a defensive cornerstone. Here's a breakdown of the player ratings from the match, highlighting the Frenchman's standout contributions:
Jules Kounde: 9/10
Kounde was a dominant force in the heart of Barcelona's defense. His composure on the ball and ability to read the game allowed him to intercept passes, win crucial tackles, and initiate attacks with pinpoint accuracy. He was a constant threat in the opposition box, showcasing his aerial prowess and even creating chances for his teammates. His performance was a testament to his versatility and tactical intelligence.
Other Key Performances
Ter Stegen (7/10): The German goalkeeper was relatively untroubled throughout the match, but he made a crucial save early on to deny Zvezda a scoring opportunity.
Pedri (8/10): The young midfielder controlled the tempo of the game, dictating Barcelona's possession and delivering precise passes that unlocked the opposition defense.
Dembélé (7/10): The winger provided a constant threat down the right flank, creating space and delivering dangerous crosses that almost resulted in goals.
Lewandowski (7/10): Despite not finding the back of the net, the Polish striker was a constant menace to the Zvezda defense, holding the ball up and providing crucial assists.
Gavi (7/10): The teenager continues to impress with his energy and technical ability, contributing significantly to Barcelona's midfield dominance.
Barcelona's Overall Performance
Barcelona's performance was a clear indication of their progress under Xavi. The team displayed impressive control and fluidity, with a strong defensive foundation built by Kounde. While there were some missed chances, the overall performance was encouraging, particularly considering the challenges of playing in a European away game.
Looking Ahead: This victory positions Barcelona well for a strong run in the Champions League group stages. With Kounde leading the defense, the team will be a force to be reckoned with in the coming weeks.