Barcelona Win UWCL in Dramatic Comeback
Match report from Barcelona v Wolfsburg, as FCB mount historic comeback in dramatic fashion to win UWCL.
Even the most optimistic of Barcelona fans feared the worst when their team went down the tunnel two goals down at half-time at the PSV Stadion. A mistake at the back had allowed Pajor to pounce on some sloppy play to give Wolfsburg an early lead, with just three minutes on the clock. Bronze was caught dwelling on the ball, and although Pajor still had a lot to do, she was able to power a shot that was too strong for Barca goalkeeper Panis to divert away.
Despite large spells of possession from Barcelona in the first half and some big chances including a free header from Paredes that drifted wide of the post, it was Wolfsburg that claimed the second goal. This time it was Germany legend Popp who caused problems for the Barcelona defence, getting the better of Mapi Leon to put Wolfsburg 2-0 up going into the half-time break.
Whether it was a rousing teamtalk from Barcelona manager Jonatan Giraldez or Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas’ inspiring words, Barcelona came out all guns blazing. They clicked into gear and suddenly Patri popped up to grab a well-fought goal to bring her team right back into the game. It had taken just three minutes to start their comeback and Patri stepped up to the occasion for yet another impressive performance while Putellas continues to recover from her ACL injury.
Patri ‘s quick-fire double brings Barca level
Just two minutes later, it was Patri who made a well-timed run into the box for a free header to bring the game level. Chances at both ends followed in an exhilarating match but it was Swedish international Fridolina Rolfo who scored the winning goal to win Barcelona’s second UWCL title in three years.
Anyone who had questioned whether Barcelona would struggle this season without injured Alexia Putellas had their theory quashed, as this Barcelona team wouldn’t accept defeat. A midfield containing Walsh, Patri and Bonmati, with Putellas coming on from the bench for a fairytale end to her injury-ravished season, shows the strength of this squad.
The Barcelona players flew back to Barcelona to complete their celebrations after what will go down as one of the most memorable Women’s Champions League finals of all time.