15/23 ground duels: Barcelona youngster puts up outrageous numbers in scintillating display against Alavés | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have made a strong start to 2025 and remain unbeaten this calendar year. They have delivered several impressive performances across competitions, though some could have been better.

Last night’s game against Alavés was far from vintage Barcelona under Hansi Flick. Instead, it felt more like a game with a Quique Setien-esque first 45 minutes and a Xavi Hernandez-esque second 45 minutes.

Ultimately, the game ended 1-0 in favor of the Catalan club with Robert Lewandowski scoring the important goal. In the context of the table, this victory was very important for Barcelona considering Real Madrid had dropped three points the previous night.

One player who had an outrageous display against Alavés and was rightfully awarded MOTM was Lamine Yamal. By his own standards, the teenager had an incredible game and was running circles around the opposition defenders.

Everyone by now is talking about the mazy run Lamine Yamal went on, beating seven players in the process. However, stats from Sofascore have further gone on to understate the outrageous game that the Spaniard enjoyed yesterday at the Montjuic.

In the 90 minutes that he played, Lamine had an xG of 0.05 and an xA of 0.34. He had one shot on target and one shot blocked. The 17-year-old completed 11(!) out of 17 attempted dribbles on the night, putting up Neymar-esque numbers in this regard.

Lamine enjoyed 73 touches on the ball, completing 66% of his attempted passes. He recorded 3 key passes on the night and was accurate with one of his three attempted crosses. He also created one big chance.

Just so much would make for an outstanding game for most players. However, Lamine’s defensive numbers are incredible too. The teenage winger completed 15 out of 23 attempted ground duels on the night, highlighting his commitment to the team’s cause.

With every passing game, Lamine’s stocks are shooting through the roof. His performances have been breathtaking to follow and last night was just further evidence of the same. Let’s wait and see where he goes from here on.