While the headlines went to the goal scorers, it was Gerard Martin who delivered the decisive action when it mattered most. The young full-back did not find the net or provide an assist, yet his contribution proved even more valuable. In the closing minutes, Barcelona were clinging to a 2-1 lead, and the momentum had suddenly shifted. This is where Albacete sensed a late equaliser.
Despite their up and down performances at times this season, Barcelona have full confidence in both Balde and Kounde as the team's starting full-backs, sources tell Barça Universal exclusively. So far this term, Kounde has played 34 matches in all competitions, registering three goals and two assists in the process. While his partnership with Lamine Yamal going forward remains strong, the French international's issues have been on the defensive side - poor positioning and struggles in 1v1 duels have become recurring themes.
The idea is simple but strict, as every young arrival will be assessed over time, with their performances, mentality, and tactical growth closely monitored. Only those who prove they are ready at the required level will be given a pathway towards the senior squad. The objective is to avoid rushed promotions and ensure that each step in the development ladder is earned.
"Very happy to be in the semifinals. We took it very seriously; we knew it wouldn't be easy," he said. "Cup matches aren't decided until the very end. They found a goal, and it's normal for them to come at you in the final minutes. The team knew how to handle it well. We're in the semifinals, and that's what's important.
According to RAC1, the club's internal planning is increasingly being carried out without Robert Lewandowski as a central figure, signalling a potential turning point in Barcelona's attack. The Blaugrana hierarchy is working under the assumption that they will be able to operate within La Liga's 1:1 financial rule this summer. If that objective is achieved, the priority would be signing a new striker and reinforcing the defence with at least one centre-back.
Barcelona initially expected the Canary Islander to miss a whole month of action through his injury, and all signs pointed to him returning only towards the end of February. Now, as reported by Guillem Borras Perez, however, Pedri's recovery is going quite well, with the player even returning to train on the grass as of this week. Considering that it has not even been two weeks since his injury, this comes as a massive boost for Hansi Flick.
At the centre of the storm was referee Jesus Gil Manzano, whose handling of the match visibly frustrated the Barcelona players. Throughout the contest, the referee's decisions appeared to go against Flick's side at key moments, gradually increasing tension on the pitch. A lot of talking points Marginal offside calls, several fouls that went unpunished, and a heavy challenge by Carlos Soler on Pedri all contributed to a sense of injustice from the visiting side.
