FC Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid : Five things we learned

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MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 13: Gabi of Atletico Madrid celebrates after the UEFA Champions League quarter final, second leg match between Club Atletico de Madrid and FC Barcelona at the Vincente Calderon on April 13, 2016 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) /

3. Gabi was the man of the match

A whole lot of credit should be given to the Atletico defense for standing firm and limiting the chances of Barcelona. The main man who was the conductor on the field was the captain Gabi. He is everything you expect from a Diego Simeone coached player. Tough, won’t back down from anyone, and plays with his heart on a sleeve. He was fantastic in the midfield, sitting back in a more defensive role. He made clearances at the exactly the right time and helped keep Mess in check in the center of the park. Although his handball was in the box, Gabi still played a great game. The usual rock in the midfield for Atletico was doing his usual work and frustrated possibly the best player in the world.

He will be facing some high-powered midfielders no matter what team Atletico draw and he will have his work cut out for him. Gabi has to be careful not to be baited into any silly yellow cards or tackles. He must keep his cool and keep his stamina up as well given he will be running around on defense a lot in the semi-finals. Credit to Gabi in showing he is one of the underrated midfielders in the world.

Next: 2. Diego Simeone

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