For teams aiming for a treble, winning even when not playing at their peak is crucial. Barcelona demonstrated this ability by overcoming a 3-1 deficit to defeat Celta Vigo 4-3 on Saturday. Goals from Raphinha and Dani Olmo were instrumental in turning the game around in the second half, securing a vital win for Hansi Flick`s side.
Barcelona has had an emotionally charged week, having just qualified for the Champions League semifinals after their victory over Borussia Dortmund. Coach Flick has voiced concerns about the congested schedule, pointing out the lack of rest for his team compared to other leagues that protect clubs playing in the Champions League. Barcelona`s April schedule remains packed with a La Liga match against Mallorca, the Copa Del Rey final against Real Madrid, and the first leg of their Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan later in the month.
With major trophies and high-stakes matches on the horizon, Barcelona cannot afford to heavily rotate their squad. This game against Celta Vigo highlighted this issue. Flick`s attempt to rest key players like Lamine Yamal and Gavi backfired as Borja Iglesias scored a hat-trick, putting Barcelona in a difficult position.
However, the introduction of Yamal and Olmo proved to be game-changing. Olmo scored just five minutes after coming on, and Yamal then assisted Raphinha four minutes later. Barcelona`s attack regained its potency, and Raphinha ultimately scored the winning goal from a penalty deep into stoppage time.
This season has been exceptional for the Brazilian player, Raphinha, who now boasts 28 goals and 20 assists across all competitions for Barcelona. His outstanding performances have placed him among Ballon d`Or contenders and propelled Barcelona to a seven-point lead over Real Madrid in La Liga.
A concern for Barcelona was Robert Lewandowski`s substitution due to muscle discomfort. His condition will be evaluated, but his absence for any significant period would be a blow given the upcoming crucial matches. Lewandowski has been in superb form this season, scoring 40 goals and providing 3 assists, making this his most productive season since 2021-22 with Bayern Munich. His presence is central to Flick`s attacking strategy, which has made Barcelona a formidable opponent for any team.
Looking ahead, Barcelona faces Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final on April 26. Lewandowski`s potential absence would be a major setback. While Real Madrid has shown vulnerability recently, particularly in their Champions League defeat to Arsenal, El Clasico matches are always fiercely contested, especially with a trophy at stake.
Flick`s tactical decisions have largely been successful this season, and he will need to continue his astute management as Barcelona cannot afford any slip-ups in their upcoming games. Winning the treble is an increasingly difficult challenge in modern football due to fixture congestion. Barcelona has the treble in their sights, with the next significant step being the Clasico against Real Madrid.
