Match Performance Ratings: Barcelona vs. Albacete

**Joan Garcia (5/10):**
The goalkeeper had a relatively quiet evening but saw his clean sheet compromised in a tense finale.

**Joao Cancelo (4/10):**
While he delivered some threatening crosses in the attacking phase, his defensive naivety was evident. Cancelo received a booking in the 15th minute and risked further sanctions with reckless fouls, prompting Flick to replace him at halftime.

**Ronald Araujo (8/10):**
As captain for the evening, Araujo led the defense effectively and scored the decisive goal that secured victory.

**Eric Garcia (7/10):**
Reintroduced to the starting lineup, Garcia’s composed performance strengthened his case for more regular appearances.

**Gerard Martin (7/10):**
Martin was active along the left flank, providing width in attack while also contributing significantly to defensive efforts.

**Frenkie de Jong (8/10):**
De Jong played a crucial role in the opening goal, demonstrating sharp awareness to press and set up Yamal for the finish. He consistently outpaced Albacete players, maintaining an advantage throughout the match.

**Marc Bernal (6/10):**
Bernal was tenacious in midfield, though he displayed moments of rustiness during the match.

**Dani Olmo (7/10):**
Olmo was proactive in front of goal, taking six shots—three on target. He demonstrated finesse with the ball and effectively assisted teammates with well-placed passes.

**Lamine Yamal (9/10):**
Yamal displayed exceptional skill, scoring a brilliant goal from De Jong’s pass. He consistently created opportunities, enchanting fans with his playmaking ability.

**Robert Lewandowski (5/10):**
Lewandowski struggled to make an impact, managing only a single shot that was saved.

**Marcus Rashford (7/10):**
Rashford had the opportunity to capitalize on Barcelona’s first major chance but fell short. Nonetheless, he played a crucial role in the buildup to the first goal and provided an assist for Araujo’s header.

**Pau Cubarsi (6/10):**
Cubarsi remained composed during most of the second half, aiding Barcelona in withstanding a late surge from Albacete.

**Fermin Lopez (7/10):**
Lopez was energetic and created several chances during his brief appearance on the pitch.

**Marc Casado (5/10):**
Casado struggled to find his rhythm off the bench, committing four fouls.

**Ferran Torres (6/10):**
Torres believed he had scored a third goal, only to have it disallowed by VAR.

**Jules Kounde (6/10):**
Kounde contributed in the final 15 minutes, helping to secure the win, despite the final moments being more precarious than necessary.

**Hansi Flick (6/10):**
Flick demonstrated respect for the competition by fielding a strong starting XI, though he will undoubtedly feel disappointed that his team failed to secure a more comfortable victory.