Barcelona delivered a masterclass performance to overcome Crvena Zvezda 5-2 in Belgrade, with defender Jules Kounde emerging as the unlikely creative spark by providing three assists in an enthralling Champions League encounter.
The match at the Red Star Stadium showcased Barcelona’s attacking prowess, but it wasn’t without its moments of defensive vulnerability. The hosts thought they had taken an early lead within three minutes, only for VAR to intervene and rule the effort offside. This early scare seemed to jolt Barcelona into action, and they soon demonstrated their superior quality.
The breakthrough came through an unlikely source when center-back Inigo Martinez rose highest to meet Raphinha’s expertly delivered set-piece, powering home a header to give the visitors the lead. The Brazilian winger’s delivery was emblematic of his overall performance on the night – a constant threat that the Serbian champions struggled to contain.
However, the hosts weren’t content to play the role of passive observers in this European spectacle. On the 26-minute mark, they drew level through a moment of individual brilliance from Silas. The forward’s delicate chip over the advancing Inaki Pena demonstrated both composure and technique, punishing Barcelona’s high defensive line and momentarily silencing the traveling supporters.
The parity wouldn’t last long, though, as Barcelona’s relentless attack continued to create opportunities. Just before the halftime whistle, Robert Lewandowski demonstrated his predatory instincts. After Raphinha’s effort struck the woodwork, the Polish striker was quickest to react, restoring Barcelona’s lead with a typical poacher’s finish.
The second half transformed into a showcase of Barcelona’s attacking capabilities, with Jules Kounde taking center stage in an unexpected role. The French defender, typically known for his defensive prowess, turned provider extraordinaire. His first assist found Lewandowski, who made amends for an earlier miss by converting from close range to extend Barcelona’s lead.
Raphinha, who had been tormenting the Serbian defense all evening, then added his name to the scoresheet with a clever low finish from the edge of the area – again assisted by the impressive Kounde. The Brazilian’s goal was a fitting reward for a performance that had earlier seen him strike the woodwork directly from a corner kick, underlining his influence on the game.
The introduction of substitute Fermin Lopez added further gloss to the scoreline, as he became the beneficiary of Kounde’s third assist of the evening. The young midfielder’s finish was clinical, though it was Kounde’s cutback that created the opportunity, completing a hat-trick of assists that will long be remembered in Champions League history.
Crvena Zvezda managed to add some respectability to the scoreline through Felicio Milson’s stunning curled effort, but it proved nothing more than a consolation. The goal, while spectacular, couldn’t overshadow Barcelona’s dominant display.
In midfield, Frenkie de Jong demonstrated his usual excellence, misplacing just one pass during his time on the pitch before being substituted. The Dutch international’s performance was complemented by Pedri’s creative influence and Marc Casado’s industrious display, showcasing the depth of talent at Barcelona’s disposal.
Young sensation Lamine Yamal continued to demonstrate why he’s considered one of football’s brightest prospects, consistently troubling the opposition defense with his dribbling ability and creating several opportunities, though he couldn’t find the finishing touch his performance perhaps deserved.
The victory was particularly satisfying for manager Hansi Flick, who watched his team execute his tactical plan to near perfection. Despite the two goals conceded, which might provide some defensive concerns, the overall performance demonstrated the attacking potential of his Barcelona side when firing on all cylinders.
The standout performer, Kounde, exemplified how modern defenders can influence games beyond their traditional defensive duties. His hat-trick of assists – a rare feat for any player, let alone a defender – showcased the evolution of the full-back position and Barcelona’s commitment to attack from all areas of the pitch.
The result strengthens Barcelona’s position in their Champions League group and serves as a statement of intent to their European rivals. While defensive improvements might still be needed, the attacking verve displayed in Belgrade suggests they remain a force to be reckoned with in this season’s competition.
As Barcelona return to domestic duties, they’ll carry the confidence from this commanding European performance. The fluid attacking display, coupled with individual brilliance from multiple players, indicates that Flick’s vision for the team is beginning to take shape, promising exciting times ahead for the Catalan giants in both domestic and European competitions.
