Ter Stegen's Return: FC Barcelona's 2-1 Win Over Valladolid After 8 Months Out
Trainer Flick Experiencing Near-Spinning Condition in Head and Neck Area
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link National goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, after a grueling 223-day absence, returns to FC Barcelona's goal under coach Hansi Flick. Despite an early setback, Ter Stegen helped the league leaders edge out the relegation-threatened Real Valladolid 2-1 (0-1), moving a step closer to the league title.
In his long-awaited comeback, the 33-year-old Ter Stegen started against Valladolid, but an early goal against loomed large. A cross from Ivan Sanchez deflected off Barça defender Ronald Araujo, leaving Ter Stegen helpless and putting Valladolid ahead (5'). To compound matters, Flick opted to rest several key players, including Lamine Yamal, Frenkie de Jong, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres.
With the team in dire straits, Flick made a series of substitutions, introducing Yamal, Raphinha, and de Jong in the second half. The moves proved pivotal, as Raphinha (54') and Fermin (60') turned the game around for Barcelona.
Despite the rocky opening, Ter Stegen displayed solid form, making several critical saves to keep Barça in the game. The German national goalkeeper, previously sidelined by a troublesome right knee injury, demonstrated his resilience and demonstrated a determination to seize the opportunity to help steer Barcelona toward the winners' circle.
Following the victory, Barcelona moved seven points clear atop the LaLiga table, with Real Madrid unable to reduce the gap further until they face Celta Vigo on Sunday. The sqaud's next El Clásico, to be played on May 11 in Barcelona, will have significant implications for both teams. In the event of a Barcelona loss, Real Madrid might have clinched the title themselves. Barcelona has the upper hand, having secured a Copa del Rey final victory against Real earlier in the season.
Barcelona's win also served as an ideal precursor to the Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan on Tuesday (21:00 CET, live on Prime Video and ntv.de). The first leg in Spain ended 3-3.
According to report, Ter Stegen's recovery process lasted over seven months due to a tendon rupture in his right knee, which had sidelined him during a crucial period of Barcelona's season. With Flick confirming Ter Stegen's readiness to resume duties, the goalkeeper will inevitably face stiff competition with Wojciech Szczęsny, as the coach has yet to anoint Ter Stegen as the long-term first-choice goalkeeper. His leadership and experience, however, are expected to bolster Barça's defense in the season's critical remaining matches.
Sources: ntv.de, ter/sid.
- Following Ter Stegen's return to FC Barcelona's goal after an 8-month absence, the team played against Valladolid in La Liga, with Barça edging out the relegation-threatened side 2-1.
- In the Champions League, Barcelona faces Inter Milan in the semi-final second leg on Tuesday, with the first leg ending 3-3.
- Though Ter Stegen started against Valladolid, the early goal against put the team in a difficult position, necessitating a series of substitutions by coach Hansi Flick.
- The German football championship, commonly known as the Bundesliga, is where Wojciech Szczęsny plays his club football, adding to the competition for the FC Barcelona goalkeeper position.
- Despite the tough battle in French football (Ligue 1), the return of Ter Stegen to the FC Barcelona squad has fueled optimism amongst fans, with many hoping for success in the Champions League and the La Liga title.
