Barcelona Player Ratings vs Albacete: Yamal Shines in Copa Clutch

Barcelona player ratings vs Albacete reflect a determined performance as the Blaugrana booked their place in the Copa del Rey semi-finals with a 2-1 victory at Estadio Carlos Belmonte. The spotlight belonged to Lamine Yamal, whose electrifying form continues to drive Barcelona forward on their quest for silverware.

Barcelona Player Ratings vs Albacete: Yamal Leads the Way

Barcelona entered the tie as clear favourites, buoyed by a recent winning streak and motivated to prove themselves after Albacete’s giant-killing heroics against Real Madrid in the previous round. However, early stages saw the Catalans struggle to break down a compact and disciplined Albacete side. Marcus Rashford missed an early chance, and the tension built as the first half progressed.

Lamine Yamal Breaks the Deadlock

The breakthrough came in the 39th minute, with Lamine Yamal once again underlining his importance to Hansi Flick’s side. Frenkie de Jong pressed high to win possession before sliding a clever pass to Yamal, who curled a superb finish into the far corner. The teenager’s goal—his fifth in six matches—was a testament to his growing maturity and technical brilliance.

Araujo Provides Breathing Room

After halftime, Barcelona looked more assured, and their dominance was rewarded when Ronald Araujo leapt highest to head home from a Rashford corner. The Uruguayan captain marshaled the defense with confidence, and his goal looked to have settled the contest. Yet, Albacete refused to give in, pulling one back through Javi Moreno and applying late pressure that tested Barcelona’s resolve.

Defensive and Midfield Assessments

Goalkeeper Joan Garcia had little to do for much of the match but saw his clean sheet spoiled by Moreno’s late strike. Joao Cancelo was lively in attack but struggled defensively, earning an early yellow card and an eventual substitution at halftime. Eric Garcia and Gerard Martin provided stability in defense, each registering solid performances.

In midfield, Frenkie de Jong was outstanding, orchestrating play and directly assisting Yamal’s opener. Marc Bernal contributed with energy but appeared rusty at times, while Dani Olmo’s six attempts on goal demonstrated his attacking intent and comfort in tight spaces.

Attack: Yamal’s Magic and Rashford’s Industry

Lamine Yamal delivered a top-class display, not only scoring but also creating openings with incisive passing and movement. Robert Lewandowski endured a frustrating evening, limited to a single effort on goal, while Marcus Rashford’s tireless pressing led to an assist for Araujo’s goal and kept the Albacete defense under pressure.

Substitutes and Manager

Pau Cubarsi offered maturity in defense after coming on, helping Barcelona withstand Albacete’s late surge. Fermin Lopez injected energy and creativity, Ferran Torres saw a goal ruled out by VAR, and Jules Kounde helped close out the win. Manager Hansi Flick fielded a strong XI, respecting both the competition and the opposition, though he will likely expect more clinical finishing in future matches.

Copa del Rey Semi-Finals and Barcelona’s Momentum

Barcelona’s 2-1 win over Albacete secures their place in the Copa del Rey semi-finals, keeping hopes of a domestic double alive. The encounter, however, was a reminder that cup football can be unpredictable—Barcelona required moments of individual brilliance and defensive concentration to progress.

Player Ratings Summary

• Joan Garcia: 5/10 – Little to do, but could not keep a clean sheet.
• Joao Cancelo: 4/10 – Good in attack, struggled defensively, substituted at halftime.
• Ronald Araujo: 8/10 – Commanding at the back, scored the winning goal.
• Eric Garcia: 7/10 – Composed and reliable.
• Gerard Martin: 7/10 – Provided width, solid defensively.
• Frenkie de Jong: 8/10 – Ran the midfield, registered a vital assist.
• Marc Bernal: 6/10 – Energetic but inconsistent.
• Dani Olmo: 7/10 – Offensive spark, tested keeper multiple times.
• Lamine Yamal: 9/10 – Match-winner, creative force.
• Robert Lewandowski: 5/10 – Quiet night, struggled for service.
• Marcus Rashford: 7/10 – Industrious, provided assist.

Subs: Pau Cubarsi (6), Fermin Lopez (7), Marc Casado (5), Ferran Torres (6), Jules Kounde (6)

Opinion: Yamal’s Emergence Signals a Bright Future

Lamine Yamal’s dazzling form provides a tantalizing glimpse into Barcelona’s future. His maturity, vision, and finishing are well beyond his years, and he has quickly become a key player for the Blaugrana. As Barcelona march into the Copa del Rey semi-finals, the team’s blend of youth and experience bodes well for the rest of the campaign. For more news on Barcelona’s Copa del Rey journey and all things football, visit for more news.