Overall, I’d say that even though Arsenal lost the game, the manner in which we lost was something to be proud of…almost.
The game came down to two mistakes. First, the goal that came from Neymar and Messi on the fast break: This mistake is Nacho Monreal’s and Giroud’s. Bellerin and Cech had Neymar in the top corner of the box. There’s no need for Monreal to run to the goal. He needed to eliminate Messi as a recipient for the pass which was Neymar’s only possible option, short of passing backwards or taking a shot. Continue reading Lessons from the Arsenal Barcelona game