Barcelona has fully entered the fight for the leadership of LaLiga after Real Madrid's latest defeat. The Catalans won 1-0 against Alavés at home and are third, four points behind the leader and three behind Atlético de Madrid. The winning goal was scored by the season's top scorer, Robert Lewandowski, who had a challenging match.
Alavés showed a very compact defense and left few spaces for Barcelona to develop their best football. One of the main reasons for the great defensive performance by the Vitoria team was one of their central defenders. Santiago Mouriño, the former Atlético de Madrid player, was a nightmare for the Catalan team, especially in the first half.
A defensive exhibition
Alavés held the first half in Barcelona with a 0-0 scoreline, making Hansi Flick's team suffer greatly. Santiago Mouriño had a very notable first half, both in statistics and on-field impressions. He wasn't dribbled past once in the first 45 minutes, won the only aerial duel he contested, and on the ground, he won one of the two duels he engaged in.
Additionally, he had a 100% effectiveness in long passes and attempted passes (6 out of 6). He prevented a clear goal from Lewandowski and made a great defensive tackle in his area to block a clear shot from Raphinha. His only downside in the match was breaking the offside trap in Barcelona's goal, but this doesn't overshadow his great performance.
Simeone was very alert
For several weeks, it has been known that Diego Pablo Simeone has asked Atlético de Madrid's sports management for a new central defender. This operation will be addressed in the summer when the club has the season's money and can invest in high-level signings. However, sometimes it's not necessary to spend large amounts to bring in players capable of contributing.
Atlético de Madrid retained, last summer, a buy-back option for Santiago Mouriño for 2.5 million euros. The Uruguayan player is having a great season in a context that is not easy. If he continues like this, the red-and-white club should seriously consider his return to Madrid.