For his strong performance in FC Barcelona’s 1-0 win over RCD Mallorca, national keeper Marc-André ter Stegen was showered with praise.
“The resurrection of ter Stegen”, was the headline in the Madrid daily “Marca” on Monday. The newspaper “El Mundo” and other media spoke of a “miracle save” and the keeper’s “miracle arm” on the right.
In injury time on Sunday evening, ter Stegen had blocked a volleyed shot by Jaume Costa from around five metres with a lightning reflex. “Marc saved us, this win is immensely important,” said Xavi. Ter Stegen “had a crisis of confidence recently” but has overcome it, the Barça coach said.
Centre-back Eric Garcia also praised the 29-year-old keeper: “Spectacular save. Marc showed what a super goalkeeper he is. We know we can rely on him when it counts.” Alongside ter Stegen, another ex-Mönchengladbach man was responsible for the Catalans’ success. The winning goal came in the 44th minute from Dutchman Luuk de Jong, whose departure continues to be the subject of speculation.
“Luuk is a great professional,” said Xavi: “They say he will leave, but he always works a lot and sacrifices himself for the team.” A denial nevertheless sounds different. Because of injuries and suspensions, but above all because of several Corona cases, Xavi had to do without 17 (!) professionals, demanded a postponement of the game and spoke of “distortion of competition”. Thanks to the victory, the financially and athletically struggling club climbed to fifth place with 31 points from 19 games.
Arch-rivals and league leaders Real Madrid surprisingly lost 1-0 at relegation candidates FC Getafe, but have a 15-point lead over Barça with one game left.
