Europe was looking towards London last night, when our Catalan heroes arrived at the Emirates stadium for the UEFA Champions League 1st Leg Quarter Final tie. Right from the word 'go', Barca, started their attack and as many as 5 to 6 attempts were miraculously blocked by Almunia. I guess my roommates were almost awakened by my sighs each time Barca missed the net. As usual Barca was, in ways more than one, the better team and both the audience as well as statistics would agree. Arsenal maintained the sheets clean till the break. Ibra netted in right after the half time and it looked like luck has finally let Arsene Wenger down. However, with cruel turn of events, Arsenal broke the Barca defence successfully. Pique was unlucky enough to be shown a card. He misses the 2nd leg. The next incident was far more disgraceful. But I suppose, we have to accept some things against us after what happened at Stamford Bridge last year in the Semis. Puyol was very unjustifiably shown a Red card and Fabregas converted the penalty resulting out of it. Final score stands 2-2 and thus, the minimum target needed for Puyol-less and Pique-less Barca at home next week is a 1-1 draw. 0-0 would be better but no other combination of a draw, let alone a loss, would be enough for Barca to survive.
But on the next matchday, I am expecting the Blaugranas to go for the kill. After all, it will be played in front of the 90000 fan strong Nou Camp!
This is my FC Barcelona diary. The only difference being, this diary is for all to read. If any part of this blog makes you feel content and that you have gained anything (from knowledge to enjoyment) do leave comments.
Truly an eventful match it was..A red card,a couple of yellow cards,a penalty and a Draw...After missing the first half i got to see the rest of the game. Again great shot to goal by Ibra.. What fascinates me most is the very attitude of cool like cucumber of this player on the field even after he has netted some spectacular goals. Particularly noticeable in this teams match are the passes which doesn't give the opposition any room for anticipation. In spite of this it was really unfortunate for Barca after scoring two goals and keeping themselves comfortably ahead of Asenes. Walcott soon became the apple of the eye for Arsene supporters as with his entry he gave the first breakthrough against Barca. It was still okay. Barca was still ahead and in a match-winnig position but then the turning point..Puyol shown the red door to the dug out. And Fabregas made the most out of the situation and scored the equalizer with a penalty shot. Result match drawn.. The fate could have been better for the Barce had a penalty not given at the end of the match. Was Puyol worth of the red card? But then the path to success doesn't really ends here for a skillful team with some high spirited players. Lets see....
ReplyDeleteThis blog makes a really good read for all Barca fans. I will stay tuned to this for sure.
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