Epic comeback and a deserved final for Koeman's Barca
Laporta, Font and Freixa were in the presidential box. On Sunday night one of them will be Barcelona’s new president. A president who will have to manage a club in economic crisis and institutional chaos. But football wise, they are starting to resuscitate. Thanks to Koeman and his bravery. His ability to recover the talent of players who seemed dead. And his confidence in a project that started with many doubts because bit by bit, it’s growing. For now, the new/old Barca are in the cup final after an epic comeback against Sevilla. A final that could be a great title for a season which everyone said was for transition.
Barcelona’s first half was perfect, almost. Because they only scored one goal, and deserved more. They dominated absolutely, pressing, winning the ball, attacking with intensity, creating a lot of danger and shooting. Dembele in particular has resuscitated. He seemed more like the Dortmund version, three and a half years on. But it has ben worth it. He has left injuries behind and is starting to perform at a level that matches his 105 million cost (+ 40 in variables). His goal was a masterpiece.
In the second half Barca slowed, partly because of good defending and partly because of tiredness. They kept trying but with more heart than head. Ter Stegen saving Ocampo’s penalty renewed their enthusiasm. Eventually Pique’s header forced extra-time, when a new game started, calmer for Barca. Sevilla, with 10 men, closed up. And Barca dominated again and Braithwaite scored to send them to the final. The trophy Koeman said was closest is now only a win away. The new president can celebrate it.
