FCBARCELONA.CAT

10.10.2007 12:33

Victories start from the back

Sergi Nogueras

FC Barcelona's forward have been enjoying the limelight in recent weeks, but the good results enjoyed by the team have been helped by one of the most impressive defences in Europe at the other end.

Starting with Víctor Valdés, the Blaugrana rearguard have been outstanding and that is down to the goalkeeper being outstanding as well as pressure being applied all over the pitch when the team do not have possession. The impressive statistics show that in the nine games this term in all competitions, Barça have conceded just four goals, and all those came in the league. Last season at the same stage the team had let in eight goals; seven in the league and one in Europe.

One of the best

These numbers make the Barça defence one of the best in Europe with only Manchester United and Bayern Munich having a better record. Alex Ferguson's side have let in just two goals in their 11 games so far this term, while the Bundesliga giants have conceded just three in 11 matches.

A point more

By keeping less goals out, Barça have also improved their points tally in the league and the Champions League. At this stage last season the Blaugrana had 16 points in la Primera, but they now have 17 this term. In Europe, Frank Rijkaard's team had four points after two matches a year ago, having beaten Levski Sofia at home and drawn away at Werder Bremen. This time around the side have maximum points thanks two wins against Lyon and VfB Stuttgart.