Barcelona are into the Copa del Rey quarter finals, but they needed a last gasp miracle from goalkeeper Joan Garcia to see off a stubborn Racing side on Thursday night.
The shot stopper made a crucial block in the dying moments to prevent extra time, sealing a narrow victory for Hansi Flick’s men. It was the latest in a string of vital contributions from a player who’s fast becoming a cult hero at the Camp Nou.
Midfielder Marc Casado, speaking to Barca TV after the final whistle, went all in with his praise. “What Joan Garcia has done is incredible. He wins us points in the league and today he almost won us the tie. He’s the best in the world,” he gushed. That’s a big shout, but few in Catalonia are arguing right now.
He weren’t the only one dishing out the plaudits. Young defender Pau Cubarsi chipped in, saying: “It’s good to have a goalkeeper like Joan who saves you.” Simple words, but they says it all about the security Garcia is providing to a sometimes shaky backline.
The keeper’s purple patch has been the talk of the terraces. He put in a man of the match shift against former club Espanyol at the start of January, then jetted off to Saudi Arabia to help Barca lift the Spanish Super Cup. His form since arriving has been nothing short of transformative, making his signing look an absolute steal.
This win keeps Barca’s hopes of a domestic cup double firmly alive, a crucial target in what’s been a turbulent season. With Garcia between the sticks, they’ll fancy their chances against anyone in the last eight. Focus now shifts back to the league, where every point is precious in that titanic scrap with Real Madrid. On this form, you’d bet on Garcia being the difference there, too.
