CD Arenteiro stunned FC Barcelona B with a 3-2 victory at the Estadi Johan Cruyff on Sunday, pushing their host's worries even higher. The young blaugrana team had twice fought back to equalize but faltered at the final whistle, conceding a late goal to the visitors.
The match had begun with both teams testing their tactical strategies. While Arenteiro dominated much of the opening half, it was Barcelona B who had stretches of control, primarily led by forward players Toni Fernández and Landry. Despite their efforts, it was CD Arenteiro who drew first blood through Pascu's goal at the 35-minute mark.
Just four minutes later, the young azulgranas responded. After winning a free kick, Sergi Domínguez skillfully converted the chance to equalize, ensuring the teams went to the break at 1-1.
Hopeful for improvement heading back onto the pitch, Barcelona B’s optimism was short-lived. Barely two minutes had passed when Baselga put Arenteiro back on top, scoring again and putting pressure on the blaugranas. Determined not to fold, Barcelona B responded quickly with Godoy’s equalizer at the 52nd minute.
From there on, the match became increasingly frenetic, as both squads pushed for the three points. Key defensive players from Arenteiro, including Diego García, kept the youthful Barça attack at bay, creating desperate situations. Cánovas García-Villarrubia, the match referee, issued yellow cards to both teams, raising tension on the field.
The contest seemed to be heading toward a draw until the final five minutes when Arenteiro’s Pascu struck again, netting the winner and sealing the deal for his side. With this late goal, he secured his second of the match and shifted the narrative for both teams, placing pressure back onto Barcelona B who currently sits perilously close to the relegation zone.
The defeat marks another blow for Barça Atlètic, who now find themselves at 25 points and needing to recuperate as they prepare for their next challenge against Nàstic de Tarragona on March 2nd.
Arenteiro, meanwhile, moved to third place with 39 points, positioning themselves squarely within playoff contention for promotion to the Second Division. Coach Raúl Jardiel acknowledged the team's performance post-match, stating, “We are returning to being the team we were.”
Upcoming matches are likely to reveal whether Barcelona B can stabilize their situation or whether Arenteiro can maintain their form to solidify their climb toward promotion.