UEFA Champions League
Two weeks after demolishing Real Madrid, Barcelona have made another mark in their recent game by beating Rubin Kazan of Russia 2-0. Kazan were yet to suffer defeat from the hands of the Catalan Giants before this match. The first encounter of these two teams was in the group stage of UEFA Champions League when Kazan shocked the champions 2-0 at Nou Camp. The next two encounters were draws.
Kazan entered the elite European competition only last year and could manage to beat the ‘team to beat’ on their home soil, the world saw it as a fluke. But, two successive draws helped Kazan gain the respect they deserved. Unlike other small clubs, Kazan was not an all defensive team although their defense is their root strength. When Barcelona play at their best, opponents hardly go beyond their own half ,but, Kazan kept threatening Catalan Goalkeeper Victor Valdez with quick counter attacks.
The Russian Champions had become a thorn in the foot for the Spanish giants. For the second encounter in the group stage of the champions league Josep Guardiola surprised the world by resting Puyol, Xavi & Iniesta. Their on field team was a glimpse of future stars who would play in Europe’s elite competition. Although it was an inexperienced side but there was no compromise as far as talent was concerned.
The first half was goal-less as Barcelona took time to find their rhythm and Kazan were busy defending brisk attacks. The second half saw two goals- a scrappy goal by young defender Fontas in the 51st minute put Barca ahead and the second one was an exquisite curling finish from long range by Victor Vazquez, who trained with the likes of Messi, Pique and Fabregas, doubling the lead in the 83rd minute.
The match also saw silly mistakes and lack of discipline in the Kazan defensive line. Their midfield couldn’t resist or counter the possessive nature of Barcelona’s game. Kazan lost because Barca played exceptionally well and Kazan couldn’t do anything to stop them. The match concluded with disappointment for the Russian side who again failed to qualify for the last 16 after playing so well. Barca would be very happy as they got rid of the monkey on their backs that was troubling them from the last two seasons.
Tags: Barcelona, Catalan Giants, CL, Football, Kazan, Real Madrid, Rubin Kazan, UEFA Champions League
