In the 2021-22 season, Frankfurt previously beat Barca 3-2 at Camp Nou in the Europa League quarter-final second leg, winning 4-3 on aggregate. During that match, the German team played so effectively that they led 3-0 after only 67 minutes. That victory was a crucial stepping stone for Frankfurt, leading them to their second European Cup in the club's history.
Building on their success three years ago, Frankfurt again performed well upon their return to Camp Nou. They not only limited Barca's scoring opportunities but also created pressure and launched effective counter-attacks towards Joan Garcia's goal. In the 21st minute, from a rapid counter-attack, Ansgar Knauff struck a precise low shot past goalkeeper Joan Garcia.
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Frankfurt players celebrate their opening goal in the 1-2 loss to Barca in the sixth Champions League group stage match on the evening of 9/12. Photo: AFP |
Frankfurt players celebrate their opening goal in the 1-2 loss to Barca in the sixth Champions League group stage match on the evening of 9/12. Photo: AFP
Stunned by the unexpected goal, Barca responded with renewed intensity. The home team tightened their formation, increased pressure, varied their attacking combinations, and took more shots. However, they lacked a bit of luck to equalize in the first half. Meanwhile, Frankfurt remained poised to launch quality counter-attacks, threatening Joan Garcia's goal.
The dynamic of the match shifted when Barca introduced Marcus Rashford in place of Fermin Lopez at the start of the second half. The English left winger, though lacking Raphinha's technical dribbling and delicate touches, enhanced the attack with intelligent movement, speed, and accurate crosses. In the 50th minute, Rashford assisted the equalizer with a perfectly timed cross for Jules Kounde, who headed the ball into Frankfurt's net.
Three minutes after the equalizer, Kounde once again played the hero, this time in another aerial duel. From a cross by Yamal, the French defender headed the ball into the far corner, securing the 2-1 victory.
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Kounde (long hair) celebrates with teammates after his two goals in Barca's 2-1 win over Frankfurt in the sixth Champions League group stage match on the evening of 9/12. Photo: FCB |
Kounde (long hair) celebrates with teammates after his two goals in Barca's 2-1 win over Frankfurt in the sixth Champions League group stage match on the evening of 9/12. Photo: FCB
After reversing the score with two quick goals, Barca continued to press. Rashford again made an impact with simple, yet effective and dangerous plays. Had his finishing been more precise, the English forward could have scored a goal of his own in the 59th minute.
Frankfurt's counter-attacks, however, were no longer as effective. Barca defended well, shutting down their opponent's advances and successfully protecting their lead.
With this valuable win, Barca earned 10 points after six matches, moving up to 14th place and just two points behind the top 8. If they win their final two matches against Slavia Prague and Copenhagen, they could still secure direct qualification for the round of 1/8. Frankfurt currently ranks 30th with four points.
Thanh Quy
