Unstoppable Salma Paralluelo guides Barcelona to stunning Women's Champions League comeback against Frankfurt
Salma Paralluelo's stunning double in the second half propelled Barcelona to a remarkable comeback victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Women's Champions League, securing a crucial 3-1 win for the defending champions
Barcelona avoided a Champions League upset against Eintracht Frankfurt with Salma Paralluelos scoring two goals in the second half, securing a 3-1 victory for the defending champions. After Laura Freigang gave Frankfurt a surprise lead just before half-time, Paralluelo equalized for Barcelona just three minutes into the second half by converting Ona Batlles' low cross.
FC Barcelona's Fridolina Rolfo jubilantly celebrates following her team's third goal in the UEFA Women's Champions League Final against VfL Wolfsburg at the PSV Stadion on June 3, 2023 in Eindhoven, Netherlands.
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Barcelona banishes past disappointments with dramatic Womens Champions League victory
Mariona Caldentey put Barcelona in the lead at the 60-minute mark, followed by 20-year-old Paralluelo securing the three points with her second goal just minutes later.
"I'm really happy to have been able to support the team," Paralluelo said after the game. "The pitch was difficult and the game wasn't pretty. We struggled in the first half, but I'm pleased that we came away with the win."
"We needed to adjust our mindset and the level of energy on the field, recognizing that we had more to offer. It was crucial for us to display that level of intensity and determination to demonstrate our desire to stage a comeback and score a goal early on."
Following a dominant 5-0 win against Benfica in the initial group stage game, it was anticipated that Barça would secure another easy victory. However, the team encountered resilient Frankfurt defense in the first half, leading to frustration before Freigang's unexpected goal.
Despite the loss, the goalscorer for Frankfurt was satisfied with her team's effort, although she was disappointed with the defense that led to Barcelona scoring three quick goals.
"We gave up three goals quickly, which was unfortunate," she commented. "I believe we still had a few opportunities, but once it was 3-1, they controlled possession, making it difficult for us to regain control."
Paralluelo's brace led the Barça comeback.
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"Our press didnt really work anymore. Against the best team in the world, thats not a surprise, but I think we played well today.
Group A is still wide open and we are determined to compete for at least the second place. That is our goal and we will strive for it. Barcelona currently holds the top position in Group A with 11 wins out of 11 matches, followed by Frankfurt in second place with six points.
Benficas 1-0 victory over FC Rosengård on Wednesday puts the Portuguese club in third.
