Intense Barcelona Derby: Joan García’s Resilient Performance

omidbasir- The Barcelona derby commenced with unprecedented intensity. In the lead-up to the match, a massive reception greeted the Espanyol team bus, where thousands of fans gathered around the RCDE Stadium to welcome their players with chants, flares, and fireworks. It was one of the most memorable receptions in recent history for the white-and-blue stadium.

Inside, the atmosphere and tension escalated. The first player to step onto the pitch was Joan García, who was returning to what was once his home last season. The young goalkeeper entered the field alone, accompanied only by the goalkeeping coaches, and was met with a deafening chorus of boos and insults from the crowd, directed at the former Espanyol youth player.

In the 13th minute, one of the stands unveiled a special tribute. In honor of Joan García’s jersey number, the fan section at RCDE Stadium displayed hundreds of cards depicting blue-and-burgundy rats along with messages aimed at the Barcelona goalkeeper. Additionally, every time Joan touched the ball, the whistleblowing and noise from the crowd grew even louder.

Despite the pressure, Joan stood firm. He showcased his composure and reflexes—qualities that led to his signing with Barcelona last summer. He played his first ball just four minutes and 28 seconds into the match, immediately met with a round of boos. It took mere seconds for him to clear the ball as it approached.

His first notable save came in the 20th minute when he adeptly handled a well-placed shot from Roberto. In the ensuing rebound, he pushed his teammate Gerard Martín to help block another attempt. This intervention saved the team but nearly resulted in an injury for Martín, who collided forcefully with Pere Milla.

The highlight of Joan’s performance occurred just before halftime. A precise cross from Carlos Romero was met with a powerful header from Pere Milla, arriving just meters from the Barcelona goal. With little time to react, Joan extended his right hand to deflect the ball away, silencing the crowd that was ready to celebrate a goal. This save, alongside Oblak’s effort in Girona, is already being considered among the top saves of the league.

In the second half, Joan would face the fans behind the goal who had previously displayed the rat cards.