Explore the thrilling 8-1 triumph of Barça Women, led by Salma and Pajor, as they prepare for the prestigious Copa de la Reina tournament.
Introduction:
FC Barcelona laid down an attacking masterclass as they thrashed Eibar 8-1, leaving them at the pinnacle of Liga F with 57 points. The champions displayed no mercy, destroying their rivals and sending a strong message as they headed to their Copa de la Reina semifinal duel against Real Madrid. See also: Pavlidis Shines with Hat-Trick
Barcelona did not waste any time in showing their superiority, with Ewa Pajor scoring in the opening minute. Eibar tried to press high and play aggressively, but their defensive holes were brutally exposed. Caroline Graham Hansen, Vicky López, Patri Guijarro, Salma Paralluelo (two goals), Ona Batlle, and Claudia Pina added goals to a stunning performance, demonstrating once again why Barça are the best team in Spain.
With the league now on hold for cup action, this win is the ideal boost before their Copa de la Reina semifinal first leg against Real Madrid on March 6.
Pajor Scores in the First Minute
Barcelona did not hang around to make their intentions apparent. Within 60 seconds, Salma Paralluelo spearheaded a scorching counterattack, leaving Eibar’s defense in disarray. She played in a precision pass for Ewa Pajor, who calmly tucked the ball away to put Barcelona 1-0 up before Eibar had time to settle.
The early score compelled Eibar to reorganize their approach, but rather than dropping back, they attempted to press forward for an equalizer. This strategy came at a cost, as Barcelona took advantage of the spaces in their defensive structure.
Graham Hansen and Vicky López Extend the Lead
Caroline Graham Hansen doubled the advantage in the 22nd minute, converting a wonderful header from Esmee Brugts’s accurate cross. Vicky López made it 3-0 towards the end of halftime, which meant Barça entered the interval in full control. Eibar, for all their passion, were overwhelmed by Barcelona’s pressure, movement, and sheer attacking ability. Their high defensive line worked in Barça’s favor, providing them with quick transitions and clinical finishing.
Monnecchi Pulls One Back, but Barça Responds Mercilessly
Eibar received a spark of hope during the start of the second half when Veronica Monnecchi netted the ball in the 50th minute. A defensive blunder from Barcelona gave Monnecchi the chance to move past and score confidently, bringing the scoreline down to 3-1.
But Barcelona reacted immediately and brutally. Far from throttling the game back, they stepped up the pace, sending an unrelenting attacking flurry that produced four goals in seven minutes. See also: Manchester United Women Edge Closer to Chelsea
Four in Seven Ends the Game
Patri Guijarro replaced the three-goal lead in the 53rd minute, sliding a precise shot past the keeper after a silky team move. Salma Paralluelo extended the lead further four minutes later (57′), scoring at close range after a mesmerizing run by Ona Batlle.
Batlle herself became the goal scorer in the 60th minute, slamming it home to take the game beyond Eibar’s reach to 6-1. While Eibar was demoralized, Barcelona just kept pressing forward with purpose, with no indication of easing up.
Salma and Pina Seal the 8-1 Rout
With complete dominance of the match, Barcelona scored two additional goals in the dying minutes:
Salma Paralluelo scored again in the 78th minute, demonstrating her strength and finishing prowess. Claudia Pina completed the scoring with a well-directed effort on the stroke of full-time. The final whistle sounded with Barcelona claiming a statement 8-1 win, reinforcing their supremacy in Liga F.
Key Takeaways: Total Dominance from Barcelona
Unstoppable Attack
Scoring eight goals with six different players finding the net highlights Barcelona’s attacking depth. Pajor, Salma, and Graham Hansen were unplayable, constantly threatening the Eibar defense.
Salma Paralluelo’s Incredible Performance
Two goals and an assist made her one of the standout players of the night. Her pace and movement tore Eibar apart, proving why she is one of the best forwards in the league.
Defensive Stability Despite One Mistake
Apart from Monnecchi’s goal, Barcelona’s backline was solid and organized. Ona Batlle and Irene Paredes controlled the defensive transitions well, ensuring Eibar had very few real opportunities.
Eibar’s Tactical Gamble Backfires
Their high-pressure strategy left them exposed, allowing Barcelona to exploit spaces with ease. The defensive errors and inability to handle Barça’s movement resulted in a heavy defeat. Despite a spirited effort in attack, their defensive frailties proved costly.
What’s Next for Barcelona?
Copa de la Reina Semifinal vs. Real Madrid: With Liga F now on hold for the Copa de la Reina, Barcelona will turn its attention to a huge semifinal against Real Madrid on March 6 at the Alfredo Di Stéfano Stadium.
The game will be one of the season’s biggest tests, with both sides eager for silverware. Barcelona’s dominant league performance makes them favorites, but they are aware Madrid will be extremely motivated to pull off an upset.
Liga F Title Charge Continues
With 57 points, Barcelona are well and truly in charge of the league. They will pick up their campaign again after the cup games, hoping to increase their lead and win yet another Liga F title.