FC Barcelona secured a vital 2-1 win in the Champions League, largely thanks to an unexpected source of goals: defender Jules Kounde.
Eintracht Frankfurt shocked the home crowd by netting the opener early in the match via Ansgar Knauff.
However, the introduction of substitute Marcus Rashford after the interval completely changed the dynamic.
Rashford provided the cross for Kounde’s immediate equaliser, and the French full-back then found the net again, this time converting a delivery from Lamine Yamal to clinch a crucial victory and boost Barça’s hopes of automatic qualification.
Barcelona Player Ratings
Joan Garcia (6/10)
The shot-stopper was relatively untroubled for most of the contest and handled all attempts with assurance. He can hardly be blamed for the goal conceded, as the initial setup and finish were excellent.
Jules Kounde (8/10)
While the French international may not be at the peak of his abilities defensively, he was the star man up front. Kounde delivered a match-winning brace with two decisive headers, a feat that made him the first Barcelona player ever to score two headed goals in a Champions League fixture.
Pau Cubarsi (6/10)
The defender appeared much more comfortable playing alongside Gerard Martin. His performance was highlighted by a crucial, well-timed tackle that shut down an Eintracht attack in the second half.
Gerard Martin (5/10)
He attempted to block the final pass that led to Knauff’s opening goal but was unsuccessful. Martin did show attacking ambition earlier in the match, launching a powerful shot that sailed narrowly above the crossbar.
Alejandro Balde (6/10)
The full-back showed good effort in tracking back alongside Knauff as the Frankfurt player charged toward goal, but he ultimately could not prevent the opposition from scoring the first goal.
Eric Garcia (6/10)
He was perhaps too slow to pressure Nathaniel Brown in the sequence leading to the opponent’s first goal. Aside from that lapse, Garcia performed reliably, particularly improving his display during the second period.
Pedri (7/10)
Unquestionably the most elegant player on the pitch, Pedri’s vision and control were vital. His performance in the second half was instrumental in helping Barcelona establish dominance and dictate the flow of the match.
Fermin Lopez (5/10)
Making his return to the starting lineup, Lopez struggled to find his rhythm, looking somewhat detached from the rest of the team. His characteristic attacking threat was absent, making his half-time substitution unsurprising.
Lamine Yamal (7/10)
He had a quiet first half, during which he lost possession in the build-up to Frankfurt’s goal. However, Yamal grew into the game after the break, delivering the cross that Kounde headed in for the 2-1 lead. Unfortunately, a yellow card he picked up means he will miss Barcelona’s next Champions League match.
Robert Lewandowski (5/10)
The striker had an early goal disallowed for offside but was largely ineffective throughout his time on the pitch. He was substituted just after the hour mark for Ferran Torres.
Raphinha (6/10)
Restored to the starting XI, Raphinha failed to make a significant impact on the game and was among the players replaced early in the second half.
Substitutes and Manager Assessment
Marcus Rashford (7/10): A game-changing introduction at half-time, Rashford was a constant threat, providing the crucial assist for Kounde’s equaliser.
Ferran Torres (6/10): His arrival injected much-needed dynamism and creativity into the attacking third.
Frenkie de Jong (6/10): Brought on late to help solidify the team and maintain the lead, he also demonstrated willingness to drive forward.
Andreas Christensen (N/A): A very late entry for Yamal.
Roony Bardghji (N/A): Another brief cameo near the end.
Hansi Flick (7/10): The manager’s initial tactical selections proved ineffective as the team struggled in the first 45 minutes. However, his decision to introduce Marcus Rashford at the half was inspired and directly led to the crucial comeback.