Chapter 42: Campaign in Full Swing
Barcelona's Champions League journey continued with three intense fixtures that tested their resolve and tactical adaptability. Meanwhile, the board convened for a critical mid-season meeting to review the club's progress and address challenges.
Matchday 2: Benfica vs. Barcelona – A Tight Contest
Barcelona traveled to Lisbon for their second group-stage game against a resilient Benfica side. The Estádio da Luz was packed with passionate fans, and the atmosphere was intimidating.
Tactical Setup:
De Zerbi kept faith in his 4-3-3 system but rotated the squad slightly. Grimaldo, eager to face his former club, started, while Baena replaced Locatelli in midfield.
Match Highlights:
First Half: The game began at a frantic pace. Barcelona dominated possession, but Benfica's compact defense proved difficult to break. In the 30th minute, Alvarez came close, but his shot rattled the crossbar. Benfica capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 42nd minute, scoring from a corner.Second Half: De Zerbi introduced Dembele and Moriba to inject energy. The changes paid off as Dembele's pace created opportunities. In the 75th minute, Mitoma delivered a pinpoint cross, and Alvarez headed home the equalizer. Despite a late surge, Barcelona settled for a 1-1 draw.
Matchday 3: Barcelona vs. Shakhtar Donetsk – A Dominant Display
Back at Camp Nou, Barcelona faced Shakhtar Donetsk. The home crowd expected a strong response after the draw in Lisbon.
Tactical Setup:
De Zerbi deployed a high-pressing system, with Pedri, De Jong, and Locatelli forming the midfield engine. Messi returned to the starting lineup alongside Mitoma and Gimenez.
Match Highlights:
First Half: Barcelona started aggressively, and their dominance paid off early. In the 12th minute, De Jong split the defense with a brilliant through ball, allowing Gimenez to slot home. Messi doubled the lead in the 28th minute with a sublime free-kick.Second Half: Shakhtar struggled to cope with Barcelona's intensity. Araujo scored from a corner in the 60th minute, and Mitoma added a fourth with a solo effort. The match ended 4-0, a statement win for the Blaugrana.
Matchday 4: Borussia Dortmund vs. Barcelona – A Tactical Battle
The trip to Signal Iduna Park promised a thrilling encounter against Borussia Dortmund. Known for their high-tempo play, Dortmund presented a unique challenge.
Tactical Setup:
De Zerbi opted for a cautious approach, starting with a double pivot of Busquets and De Jong to counter Dortmund's midfield runners. Messi and Alvarez led the attack.
Match Highlights:
First Half: Dortmund pressed relentlessly, forcing Barcelona into mistakes. Ter Stegen made crucial saves to keep the game level. In the 35th minute, Dortmund broke the deadlock through a swift counterattack.Second Half: Barcelona grew into the game. Messi orchestrated the attack, and in the 70th minute, Baena's curling shot found the top corner to equalize. The game ended 1-1, with both teams sharing the spoils.
Amid the Champions League fixtures, President Alex called a board meeting to evaluate the team's performance and address ongoing challenges.
Key Agenda Items:
Squad Depth:
Sporting Director Giuseppe Marotta raised concerns about the lack of depth in certain positions, particularly full-backs and forwards.Resolution: The board approved plans to scout for reinforcements in January, targeting a versatile attacker and a backup right-back. Financial Performance:
Financial Director Michael Edwards presented a report highlighting the club's improved revenue streams from ticket sales, merchandise, and sponsorship deals. However, he cautioned against overspending in the winter window.Resolution: A balanced approach was agreed upon, prioritizing cost-effective signings. Youth Development:
Technical Director Jordi Cruyff emphasized the importance of integrating La Masia talents into the first team.Resolution: De Zerbi was encouraged to provide more opportunities for players like Lamine Yamal and Balde. Champions League Performance:
The board commended the team's resilience but acknowledged the need for more clinical finishing.Resolution: A special training program focusing on attacking transitions and set-pieces was implemented.
With eight points from four games, Barcelona sat second in their group, well-positioned to qualify for the knockout stages. The board's proactive measures and De Zerbi's tactical adjustments reflected a unified vision to return Barcelona to European glory.
As the team prepared for the next phase of the season, one thing was clear: the foundations were being laid for a long-term resurgence, both on and off the pitch.