"They didn't start the campaign in top form, but they made a spirited run at the end to claim a very valuable top eight finish, and with it, a direct spot in the round of 16. The accomplishment was even more impressive when you consider that they had to get the win without Pedri and Frenkie de Jong. This Barcelona team continues to show that getting results is a team effort."
"That being said, Lamine Yamal was not just the best player on the field against Copenhagen, he was Barca's leader. Not a bad encore after grabbing headlines for a golazo of bicycle kick against Real Oviedo. Barcelona as a club will always be judged by what they do or don't in the Champions League. Lamine, an aspiring Ballon d'Or winner, will also be judged by what he does for his team in this competition."
"Flash forward to the end of the night. Real Madrid, PSG, and Newcastle, who started day in the top eight, are now on the outside looking in. They will have to play two extra games in the playoff round. One of the big reasons Barca made it to the semi-finals last year, and minutes away from the final, is because of their streamlined path, and relatively easier matchups against Benfica and Dortmund."
Barcelona struggled early in the campaign but produced a late surge to finish in the top eight and secure a direct spot in the Champions League round of 16. The qualification came despite absences of Pedri and Frenkie de Jong, demonstrating collective team strength. Lamine Yamal emerged as the match leader and key influence, building on a recent bicycle-kick golazo against Real Oviedo. Barcelona conceded early but showed urgency and motivation to recover. Real Madrid, PSG, and Newcastle dropped out of the top eight and must play extra playoff ties, while Benfica grabbed the final spot with a last-minute goal.
Read at Barca Blaugranes
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