Barcelona defender reflects on crucial goal line clearance in Albacete win: ‘Always a big relief’ | OneFootball

Barcelona secured their place in the Copa del Rey semifinals after a narrow 2-1 win over Albacete, but the result owed just as much to defensive heroics as it did to attacking moments. 

While the headlines went to the goal scorers, it was Gerard Martin who delivered the decisive action when it mattered most.

The young full-back did not find the net or provide an assist, yet his contribution proved even more valuable. 

In the closing minutes, Barcelona were clinging to a 2-1 lead, and the momentum had suddenly shifted. This is where Albacete sensed a late equaliser.

A crucial defensive action

Moments later, danger arrived, as Fran Gamez broke free inside the box after receiving a pass from the left flank and lifted a delicate chip over Joan Garcia. 

With the goalkeeper beaten, the ball seemed destined to drop into the net and force extra time.

That was when Martin stepped up. Positioned close to the goal line, the defender reacted instantly. 

He tracked the flight of the ball, rose at the right moment, and headed it away from under the crossbar. 

It was a perfectly timed intervention, one that prevented the score from becoming 2-2 and effectively sealed Barcelona’s progression.

The clearance carried even greater significance considering what had happened just moments earlier, as Ferran Torres had seen a goal ruled out for offside. 

Instead, Barcelona were forced to defend their slim advantage until the final whistle.

Reflecting on the event

After the match, Martin spoke about the decisive moment and what it meant for him personally. 

Reflecting on the clearance, he said, “For a defender, making a goal-saving stop is always a big relief. I got under the crossbar and managed to get it out.”

The defender also highlighted the team’s collective effort and ambition for the remainder of the competition. 

“We knew what we were up against and we went out there and gave it our all. 

“I don’t know if we’re the favourites, but we’ll go for everything. We’re three games away from another title, and we’ll go for it,” he said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.