Barcelona player ratings vs Real Sociedad
Barcelona recorded an important win over table toppers Real Sociedad on Wednesday night at Camp Nou. There were some excellent performances on the night.
Ter Stegen: Solid in his distribution, always looking for Messi to build attacks. He made two outstanding saves at 2-1 to keep Barcelona ahead, one from point-blank range from Isak. There wasn't much he could for La Real's goal. 8/10
Dest: Good game from the young Dutchman, who is gradually establishing himself on the right side, looking more comfortable as the weeks pass. 7/10
Araújo: An excellent defensive display from the Uruguayan at the heart of the defence. Composed on the ball and capable in the air. Still only 21. 8/10
Mingueza: He could not finish the game due to a muscular problem, but was very strong alongside Araújo before being substituted. Showed leadership qualities throughout, in a young back four. 8/10
Alba: His best game so far this season, especially in attack, where he not only scored a great goal with his weaker right foot, but also provided the assist for De Jong to score the second. 8/10
Busquets: Did a good job minimising Mikel Merino's threat in the middle of the park. Offers experience in a team missing several senior members through injury. 7/10
De Jong: Has been involved in two goals in his last two appearances in LaLiga (1 goal and 1 assist). Broke the lines well. Growing more into his role in the team after a spell at centre-back. 7/10
Griezmann: His open goal miss will haunt him for a while. It was easier to score but he somehow managed to pass to the keeper as he sat on the goal line. The Frenchman also had a great chance, when he rounded Remiro but his effort came back off the crossbar. Worked really well defensively. No lack of effort. 7/10
Pedri: Crashed badly into the post before being substituted. Provided many options in attack, linking up with Messi, especially in the first half, when the home team were far superior. At 18 years old and playing at this level, it is clear that we are seeing a star in the making. 7/10
Braithwaite: He played on the left wing and was great when it came to helping Alba out defensively. He was close to opening the scoring but sent his effort over the bar. Does a lot off the ball and never tires. 7/10
Messi: Played really deep at times, receiving passes from Ter Stegen to build the play. Continues to have the same determination and ability to lead the attack. On this occasion he wasted two clear chances, with tame shots. 7/10
Substitutes
Trincão: Replaced Griezmann. He participated in a lot of the second half play from the right wing. Still lacks conviction, but overall his performance was good. 7/10
Aleñá: Made some basics erros after coming on. 5/10
Pjanic: Didn't add much after replacing Pedri. Not enough to make Koeman give him a start next time out. 5/10
Lenglet: Came on after Mingueza picked up a knock. Defended well. 6/10