The Catalans intended to continue with a win in Bilbao. They are in a position where they can’t allow themselves to lose more points. Athletic went in the match with a brand new coach, but mostly thanks to the phenomenal Messi, Koeman’s Barca won the match and got in the top 3 in the league table. Alongside Messi, there were a few very good individual performances too, Pedri was one of them once again. He is playing like a mature, nearly world-class midfielder for weeks now. He is absolutely enjoying Koeman’s trust, with that being said, let’s see how the young Spanish man did this time!
Amazing first half
After the very fast Inaki Williams goal, the team tried to push as much as they can. Thanks to Messi’s amazing long pass and De Jong’s assist, Pedri scored a header and equalized. After that, we could see he enjoyed himself on the pitch. He created many chances and used his amazing connection with Messi. It’s very heartwarming to see how they get each other. It seems like Leo found his partner on the pitch. Furthermore, before the end of the first half, once again they showed why we call them “the special pair”.
Messi passed the ball to Pedri who gave a backheel assist to the forward running Argentine. He finished it and Barcelona took the lead, just like that.
The rest of the game overall
It is not the first time Pedri gives an amazing backheel pass, he is very unpredictable and difficult to play against. He is very comfortable with the ball and his ball-controlling is impressive too.
In the second half, He created a few chances and almost gave another assist to Messi. It was one of his best, if not the best game in Barca jersey, no doubt. He is still very young and can improve in defending and oncentration mostly but in a few years, if he continues to play like this, he could become one of the best midfielders in the world.
Statistics (Sofascore)
•1 goal
• 1 assist
• accurate passes – 90%
•3 key passes
• 3 long balls
•4 duels won
• 2 tackles
• 1 clearance
•1 interception
• 9 possession lost
Rating: 10/10
