Yamal 9.5, Torres 9.0 | FC Barcelona 4-1 RCD Espanyol: Player ratings | OneFootball

FC Barcelona emerged victorious in their local derby against RCD Espanyol. A fairly straightforward game, apart from a spell where the opposition looked eager to equalise, saw them extend their lead at the top of the table to nine points.

A 4–1 win at the Spotify Camp Nou saw Ferran Torres score a brace, with both Lamine Yamal and Marcus Rashford also getting on the scoresheet. Ahead of a crucial run of games, this is exactly the kind of win that La Blaugrana needed.

Here are the player ratings for Hansi Flick’s team.

Starting XI:

Joan Garcia: 7.0/10

A solid performance from the Spanish goalkeeper, who was always composed under pressure. He could not do much about the goal he conceded.

Ronald Araujo: 7.0/10

The Uruguayan defender was solid on the right flank and showcased his defensive reliability. However, his passing was a bit sluggish at times, and he should have positioned himself better for Espanyol’s goal.

Pau Cubarsi: 7.5/10

Strung together a lot of passes in this game, some of which created promising attacks. He also contested his duels well, albeit not always successfully.

Gerard Martin: 6.5/10

The Spaniard had a solid first half, but it was ultimately bittersweet as it appears he picked up an injury. He was replaced at half-time by Marc Casado.

Alejandro Balde: 6.5/10

Found himself in promising positions, but his final pass often let him and his teammates down. However, he tracked back well and contributed defensively when needed.

Eric Garcia: 7.5/10

Operating almost like a general across midfield and defence, Eric Garcia provided strong cover with his defensive abilities, while his passing remained solid. He continues to be reliable wherever he plays.

Pedri: 8.0/10

A composed performance from the Spanish midfielder, who did exceptionally well despite the pressure applied by Espanyol. He also excelled in winning his duels.

Lamine Yamal: 9.5/10

Troubled Espanyol from the very start and consistently hurt them with his creativity. He delivered two excellent assists and continued to generate chances with sensational dribbling. He eventually capped his performance with a goal.

Gavi: 7.0/10

Consistent in his duels and effective in winning back possession for Barcelona on multiple occasions. His distribution and positioning were also solid.

Fermin Lopez: 7.5/10

Unable to make the impact he would have liked, but his intensity and pressing still benefited Barcelona. A solid outing from the young midfielder.

Ferran Torres: 9.0/10

A sharp performance from the Spanish forward, who scored a brace with two excellent finishes. This is exactly what Hansi Flick needed from him, and his overall play was consistent.

Substitutes:

Marc Casado: 7.0/10

A decent performance from the young Spaniard, who managed his responsibilities well. He also played a great pass to Lamine Yamal for Barça’s third goal.

Joao Cancelo: 7.0/10

Added creativity on the left flank, with several lively runs. He appears ready for the challenges ahead.

Marcus Rashford: 7.0/10

Missed a golden opportunity to score Barça’s third goal at a crucial moment, an issue that continues to linger. However, he redeemed himself with a late goal.

Dani Olmo: 6.0/10

Reliable in midfield, he helped dictate play and had a few promising moments.

Frenkie de Jong: 7.0/10

Did not play many minutes, but his impact was immediate. He delivered a sensational assist for Marcus Rashford’s goal.