Ansu Fati keeps Barcelona alive in Champions League

Barcelona found themselves in a must-win game against Dynamo Kyiv in the Champions League. Things started off on the wrong foot as Sergiño Dest was a late scratch due to injury.

The match followed a familiar pattern for Barcelona with the Catalans having most of the possession in the opening minutes yet unable to take advantage of that possession. Kyiv eventually wrestled some control back and sought to catch the visitors on the break.

They did so a couple of times with Marc-Andre ter Stegen up to the task and saving Barcelona from going down.

Barcelona get some breathing room but not out of the woods yet

Halfway through the second half it seemed like it was going to be the same old story on the road for Barcelona. However, the club’s new No. 10 stepped up.

After an umpteenth cross from Oscar Mingueza, a deflected clearance landed toward Ansu Fati who did not hesitate and slammed his shot into the roof of the net. Barcelona scored a goal away from home and, more importantly, led a game they needed to win.

The 19-year-old netted what ended up being the game winner to put Barcelona in second place in their group behind Bayern Munich. He also dedicated the goal, and the win, to Sergio Aguero.

"“That was for Kun [Aguero], for what he’s been through the past week,” said Fati.“He’s a player who gives us a lot. He’s going to be out for a while.“This victory is for him and we hope he recovers soon.”Source: Marca"

While Barcelona still struggle to score, there has been a noticeable difference in the way the team has played since the sacking of Ronald Koeman. The pressing has gotten better and, for better or worse, the team is defending with a high line.

The reaction following this win against Kyiv compared to the one a couple of weeks ago at the Camp Nou is night and day.

"“We all knew that we had to win at any cost. The players were nervous before the game and you look at them now and their faces are different. Winning always helps and I hope we keep momentum for the next game,” Barcelona’s caretaker coach Sergi Barjuan told reporters.Source: Reuters"

Fati is someone who represents both the short- and long-term aspirations for Barcelona. There is a reason why he inherited Lionel Messi’s old number. It’s a challenge and one he is relishing.

Another highlight is the return of Ousmane Dembélé who had been out for four months after suffering an injury with France in Euro 2020. Despite the frustration with his constant injuries, it is evident that he provides something different when he is on the pitch.

Barcelona’s next Champions League fixture is against Benfica at home. A win there might mean progression out of the group. Before then are league matches against Celta Vigo and the Catalan Derby against Espanyol.

This could be a turning point in Barcelona’s season. Things could even get better with Xavi Hernandez at the helm. Whatever the case, Fati is certain to be front and center of everything.