8th consecutive win in the league since the Clásico loss, and we keep up our league scoring record since the Leganés loss last season in December.
Was always going to be a tough game, even against a Villarreal side that had so many absentees. They were bound to be extra motivated after their recent results.
The penalty came at a very opportune time for us, because they looked very dangerous in transition.
We had multiple nervy moments in the first half, with our defence telegraphing passes more than usual and giving the ball away as a result.
The Jules OG we got away with; things could've turned out very different in terms of momentum.
The red was huge for us. It was a deserved red though and we're lucky that Lamine didn't get injured.
At half-time our NPxG was not great (even though Raph could've scored with that shot that hit the woodwork).
Second half we started much better, but Villarreal's OOP was still dangerous and Joan was monstrous this game once again. If it wasn't his saves, it was his command of the box once again taking the sting out of the situation.
Flick's subs were great. Rashford especially suited this game state perfectly. Ferran was quiet, and had a few chances that Lewy could've done better in.
Frenkie was so key, and because of Eric shielding the backline he was able to be involved further up and showcase his obvious creative abilities, yet defensively he was still very important too.
Bernal once again showed his quality and is getting more and more comfortable match rhythm-wise.
4 points clear heading into the new year. Tough game against a much-improved Espanyol next, but we are in a great moment.
This winter break will allow all of our players, but especially the ones with knocks/fatigue etc to rest and recover. Hopefully Jules is ok too; we saw RB Casadó thrown into the deep end in a tough game, and he held his own so that is a good sign at least.