×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Neymar starts to shine for Barca

Neymar took time to settle but is finally shining in Barcelona's devastating attacking trident with Villarreal the next La Liga opponents in their sights on Sunday as the Catalans continue their pursuit of Real Madrid.

The pressure of expectation and scandal over the true cost of his transfer fee from Santos in 2013 led former president Sandro Rosell to resign and appeared to weigh heavily on Neymar during his first season at the Nou Camp.

He also found it difficult to adapt to the physical demands of the Spanish league and picked up a series of injuries.

The Brazilian took a share of the blame for Barca finishing last season without a major trophy but is now realising his true potential on European soil.

The return to form of Lionel Messi has also played a part, while Luis Suarez is linking up well.

Messi has more goals this season but Neymar has developed a habit of scoring in crucial matches, including his double as Barca twice came from behind to knock Atletico Madrid out of the King's Cup on Wednesday.

Barca booked a place in the semifinals with a 3-2 victory, 4-2 on aggregate, in a stormy game.

Because the Catalan side is renowned for its short-passing game through midfield, it was surprising that both goals came from rapid counterattacks.

The first saw the forward trio tear Atletico's defence apart with Messi finding Suarez, who in turn set up Neymar to finish clinically.

"Neymar was his usual confident self and he gave us a lot in attack as well as defence. His game is about beating players and he did very well," Enrique said.

Real Madrid, a point clear of Barca at the top, take on Real Sociedad tomorrow without the suspended Cristiano Ronaldo.

 

La Liga fixtures for the weekend

TODAY

Rayo Vallecano v Deportivo (9.45pm)

TOMORROWReal Madrid v Real Sociedad(5pm), Eibar v Atletico Madrid (7pm), Granada v Elche (9pm), Celta Vigo v Cordoba (11pm)

SUNDAY

Levante v Athletic Club (1pm), Almeria v Getafe (6pm), Sevilla v Espanyol (8pm), Barcelona v Villarreal (10pm).

 

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.