FC Barcelona Femeni, led by coach Jonatan Giraldez, secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Athletic Club Bilbao in an electrifying encounter at the Estadi Johan Cruyff. The match showcased Barcelona’s prowess and highlighted their readiness for the upcoming UEFA Women’s Champions League final. The game witnessed goals from Caroline Graham Hansen, Irene Paredes, and Salma Paralluelo, while Alexia Putellas made a crucial appearance.
Photo during the Finetwork Liga F match between FC Barcelona Femeni and Athletic Club at Estadi Johan Cruyff, Barcelona. Photo by Lina A.
The match kicked off with both teams displaying determination and intensity. Barcelona controlled the tempo right from the start, showcasing their attacking prowess. They dominated possession and created several scoring opportunities throughout the first half. However, Athletic Club Bilbao’s resolute defense managed to keep the scoreline goalless as the teams headed into the halftime break.
The second half saw Barcelona maintain their attacking dominance and finally break the deadlock in the 61st minute. It was Caroline Graham Hansen who found the back of the net with a precise strike, unleashing a wave of jubilation among the home crowd. Hansen’s goal injected Barcelona with a renewed sense of confidence and put them firmly in control of the match.
Just six minutes later, in the 67th minute, defender Irene Paredes doubled Barcelona’s lead with a well-placed header from a corner kick. Paredes displayed her aerial prowess, rising above the defense to guide the ball into the net, leaving the Bilbao goalkeeper helpless.
Barcelona continued to press forward relentlessly, seeking to extend their lead. Their attacking intent paid off in the dying moments of the game when Salma Paralluelo sealed the victory with a goal in injury time. Paralluelo exhibited exceptional composure, slotting the ball into the bottom corner and effectively putting the match beyond Bilbao’s reach.
Photo during the Finetwork Liga F match between FC Barcelona Femeni and Athletic Club at Estadi Johan Cruyff, Barcelona. Photo by Lina A.
In a significant tactical move, the Blaugrana coach Jonatan Giraldez introduced Alexia Putellas in the 71st minute. Alexia, a key player for Barcelona, had been recovering from an ACL injury and needed match minutes ahead of the UEFA Women’s Champions League final. Her inclusion showcased Barcelona’s intent to provide her with valuable playing time and maintain her match fitness for the crucial upcoming fixture.
The match concluded with Barcelona emerging as deserving victors, with a comprehensive 3-0 scoreline against Athletic Club Bilbao. The result highlighted Barcelona’s attacking prowess, defensive solidity, and overall team coordination. The win served as an essential morale boost as they prepared for the UEFA Women’s Champions League final, ensuring they entered the prestigious tournament with confidence and momentum.
