Photo by ANDER GILLENEA/AFP via Getty Images
Barcelona restored their nine-point lead atop the Premier League standings after they defeated Athletic Club 1-0 away at San Mames on Sunday night.
A late first-half goal from Raphinha was enough for the Catalans to come away with three points. There was some element of controversy in the game though as Inaki Williams saw a goal ruled out by VAR for handball – a decision that did not go down well with the hosts.
Barcelona had a number of players who stood up at San Mames – Marc-Andre ter Stegen produced some important stops, Alejandro Balde shone on the left, Raphinha scored another clutch goal and Sergio Busquets was impressive with his defensive duties.
But it was Frenkie de Jong who looked like the best player on the field for Barcelona on the night. The Dutchman was sharp in the build-up play and created a few chances for the Blaugrana, showing why he has become such an integral part of the team.
Speaking to the press after the match, manager Xavi Hernandez was full of praise for the Netherlands international, hailing him as one of the best midfielders in the game.
[Source: barcauniversal.com]