Barcelona continued their perfect start to the Champions League with a 2-1 win over Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday. Ferran Torres and Fermín López scored in the first half to give the hosts a comfortable lead, and they held on for victory despite Heorhiy Sudakov pulling one back for Shakhtar after the break.
The win puts Barcelona top of Group H with nine points from three games, and they are now well on course to qualify for the knockout rounds. It is a big improvement on their recent Champions League record, having been eliminated in the group stage in the last two seasons.
Barcelona dominant first half:
They started the game strongly and took the lead in the 28th minute through Torres. The Spanish forward volleyed home from close range after López’s shot had hit the woodwork.
Barcelona continued to dominate possession and added a second goal just before the half-hour mark. López again played a key role, this time crossing for the unmarked Gavi to head home.
Shakhtar barely had a chance in the first half, and Barcelona could have easily gone into half-time with a more comfortable lead.
Shakhtar fights back in the second half against Barcelona:
They came out fighting in the second half and pulled one back in the 52nd minute through Sudakov. The Ukrainian midfielder took advantage of a defensive mix-up from Barcelona to slot home from close range.
The goal gave Shakhtar a lifeline, and they started to threaten more often. However, Barcelona remained solid in defense and held on for the victory.
Conclusion:
Barcelona’s perfect start to the Champions League continues with a 2-1 win over Shakhtar Donetsk. It is a big improvement on their recent Champions League record, and they are now well on course to qualify for the knockout rounds.
Barcelona’s perfect start continues
They have made a perfect start to the Champions League this season, winning all three of their opening games. This is a big improvement on their recent record in the competition, having been eliminated in the group stage in the last two seasons.
Torres and López star in first-half win
Ferran Torres and Fermín López were the stars of the show for Barcelona in the first half. Torres opened the scoring with a volley, and López provided assists for both of Barcelona’s goals.
Shakhtar fights back in the second half
Shakhtar came out fighting in the second half and pulled one back through Heorhiy Sudakov. However, Barcelona remained solid in defense and held on for the victory.
Barcelona top of Group H
Barcelona’s win puts them top of Group H with nine points from three games. They are now well on course to qualify for the knockout rounds.
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández was pleased with his team’s performance, saying: “We played a very good game, especially in the first half. We created a lot of chances and scored two good goals. We’re happy with the result.”
Shakhtar coach Pušić disappointed with the result
Shakhtar coach Marino Pušić was disappointed with the result, but he praised his team for their fighting spirit in the second half. He said: “We’re disappointed with the result, but we’re proud of our performance. We showed great character in the second half to come back from 2-0 down.”
Barcelona’s perfect start continues
Barcelona’s perfect start to the Champions League continues with a 2-1 win over Shakhtar Donetsk. It is a big improvement on their recent Champions League record, and they are now well on course to qualify for the knockout rounds.