Ferran Torres scored against Real Betis at the Montjuic Stadium to end Barcelona’s disastrous free-kick streak.
Since Messi scored a direct free kick at Mestalla on May 2, 2021 against Valencia, Barcelona has not scored from a direct free kick outside the penalty area. That was two years and two months ago.
Messi has been the scorer of Barca’s last 20 direct free-kick goals, but the Argentine’s departure marked the beginning of a black streak that Ferran Torres successfully ended.
Since Messi’s goal at the Mestalla, Barca have attempted 49 shots without scoring, with the likes of Lewandowski, Ferran himself and Raphinha all trying their luck.
Ferran Torres was in the sweet moment of scoring with a beautiful shot. Since the start of the season, he has averaged a goal every 38 minutes, scoring eight goals in his past nine games. An impressive performance that earned him a starting spot in the starting lineup just like yesterday.
Phelan’s changes
Being at the center of a hurricane, Phelan manages to turn a complicated situation around. The player from Foios is aware of how football works, especially around strictly football matters, and he has shut down rumors about his future with statements and performances – and he has reiterated his desire to continue.
That’s why he stepped up his fitness and mental preparation efforts. I hope to be able to show my talents on the court. He is succeeding.
“Phelan is an example of that. Whether he plays 10 minutes, 30 minutes or starts from the starting line, he always performs at 100 percent,” Xavi praised him on Friday.
As he showed on social media, his shark mentality allowed him to turn around uncomfortable situations.