Barcelona shines with a 3-0 win over Manchester City in the UCL, thanks to the outstanding performances of Aitana and Alexia, who dominate the field.
Introduction:
The Women’s Champions League continues to deliver world-class football, and Barcelona’s encounter with Manchester City was no exception. The match started with an intense press from Barcelona, forcing an early turnover near City’s box. Former City midfielder Keira Walsh capitalized on the mistake, quickly finding Salma Paralluelo in space. The forward danced past Ouahabi before curling a right-footed shot towards the far post. Keating reacted brilliantly to deny her and push the ball out for a corner.
Football’s Growing Popularity
Pre-match, a small but telling moment highlighted the growing attraction of women’s football. An English father and daughter, both huge fans, had traveled from the UK to watch consecutive Champions League games—Real Madrid vs. Chelsea in Madrid the night before and now Barcelona vs. Manchester City. The daughter, a big Keira Walsh supporter, was eager to see her idol in action. See also: Alessia Russo and Caldentey Inspire Arsena
Roord’s Midfield Influence
Manchester City manager Gareth Taylor pinpointed Jill Roord as a key player in midfield before the game, and she showcased her class early on. With her signature composure on the ball, she dictated play and looked like she always had an extra second to think, a hallmark of a top midfielder. See also: Chelsea End League Cup Drought
Barcelona’s Dominance but Missed Chances
From the start, Barcelona asserted territorial control, keeping City pinned in their half. Their attacking play was fluid, but key moments lacked precision. Aitana Bonmatí had an early shot from distance, but Keating made an easy save. While the champions were dominating, frustration was creeping in as the final ball failed to deliver time and again.
Man City’s Response
City’s first real chance came from a swift counterattack. Blindkilde Brown surged forward, feeding Park on the left. She cut inside and fired a dipping effort, but the home keeper collected comfortably. City defended bravely, working tirelessly to keep Barcelona from breaking through.
Aitana’s Almost-Audacious Strike
A moment of near-brilliance came when Aitana intercepted a loose pass with Keating well off her line. The Barcelona midfielder attempted a curling effort from distance, but the ball bounced agonizingly wide of the far post.
The Goal Barcelona Deserved
With the end of the half fast approaching, Barcelona’s non-stop pressing paid off. A slick passing movement found Brugts on the left, where she cut it back into the box. City managed to clear it out but it fell to Clàudia Pina just inside the area. She struck with precision a left-footed shot to the far corner—Barcelona finally had the goal their dominance merited.
Second Half: More of the Same
Barcelona resumed the second half with the same intensity, nearly doubling their lead within seconds. A perfectly weighted through ball from Paralluelo split City’s defense, but the visitors scrambled to clear as Keating was once again called into action.
Aitana’s Moment of Brilliance
The breakthrough for the second goal came in classic Barcelona fashion—quick, incisive passing. Pina found Pajor, who, with her back to goal, executed a brilliant turn before sliding a pass into the path of Aitana Bonmatí. Holding off the challenge of Ouahabi, Aitana slotted the ball between Keating’s legs to give Barcelona a comfortable 2-0 lead.
Almost a Brace for Aitana
Moments later, Aitana nearly made it three. A duel between Batlle and Roord saw the ball loop into the box, where Aitana pounced. Her effort, however, clipped the crossbar and bounced away. Barcelona were creating chances at will.
The Alexia Effect
Enter Alexia Putellas. The Barcelona legend wasted no time making an impact. Moments after coming on, she latched onto a loose ball following a brilliant midfield challenge by Patri and fired a powerful strike past Keating. The score was now 3-0, and with it, Barcelona sealed their place at the top of the group.
A Fitting Conclusion
Barcelona’s performance reaffirmed their status as reigning champions. Despite City’s resilience, the gap in quality was evident. Pere Romeu, in his first full season as head coach, saw his team execute his game plan to perfection. The win ensured Barcelona finished top of their section for the fourth consecutive year since the group stage format was introduced.
Final Thoughts
It was a high-energy, entertaining contest with moments of brilliance from both sides. City, despite their injuries, defended valiantly, but Barcelona’s relentless pressing and superior quality proved too much. With Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas pulling the strings, Barcelona once again showed why they are the team to beat in Europe.