Montjuïc bows at the feet of Pedri: the Canary repeated the MVP against Benfica

FC Barcelona advanced to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League against Benfica (3-1) in another superb performance by Pedri González. The Canary once again led the Blaugrana midfield, this time with less physical strain than in the first leg in Lisbon, but again showing a remarkable commitment to cover the entire field, helping in recovery and ensuring a clean exit for a team that secured its qualification in 42 minutes.

The goals came from Raphinha (double) and Lamine Yamal (stunning goal and assist), but Barça showcased their superiority on the pitch thanks to the silent work of Pedri. Although he did not score or assist, the '8' was the MVP chosen by UEFA in both matches, where he only missed 8 passes out of 156 possible (95% accuracy). Last Wednesday, he completed 64 out of 68 passes, and this Tuesday, 84 out of 88.

Additionally, Pedri recovered 11 balls, winning 7 out of 11 duels. The Blaugrana midfielder did not commit any fouls and received a couple, attempting only one shot that was blocked by an opponent. With Dani Olmo close to the attacking trio, the Tegueste native was much more attentive to lend a hand to Frenkie de Jong. In at least two opportunities in the first half, the Montjuïc crowd chanted his name while applauding two recoveries near the culé area.

Pedri praises the work of Lamine and Raphinha

In the second half, Barça had some opportunities through Frenkie de Jong and Ferran Torres to extend the lead, while Benfica also managed to create some chances to close the gap on the scoreboard. In the end, the two-goal difference (three in total) reflected the image presented by both teams. After the match, the most valuable player praised the efforts of the scorers of the match upon receiving the award.

"The MVP could have gone to Raphinha or Lamine. They are spectacular players. Robert finishes everything... we have dynamite up front that we need to take advantage of," argued Pedri. In that sense, he also reflected on the lapse that cost the partial equalizer for Benfica, while valuing the collective performance of the Blaugrana. "The team maintained the level of concentration. The flashes of players we have clarified the result," he added.

And regarding his commitment to defensive duties, the Tegueste native explained how he usually approaches each match to give a better version of himself. "I have always tried to work on defense. My father told me that if I play a regular day, at least I should work and defend for the team," pointed out the culé '8', who also took the opportunity to send a warm greeting to the family of Dr. Carles Miñarro, to whom the entire squad wanted to dedicate Tuesday's victory.