How Batrakov scored Barcelona and broke the Russian drought in the Champions League

Russian midfielder “Galatasaray” Alexei Batrakov came in the starting lineup in the match of the second round of the General stage of the Champions League against “Barcelona”.

Already in the 28th minute, the 21-year-old Russian midfielder scored the ball.

The goal attack began with Rafael Leau's spurt on the left flank. The Portuguese beat Barcelona defender Eric Garcia and made the transfer to the penalty line. Batrakov picked up the ball and punched down, and after a ricochet the projectile was in the gates of the Catalan club.

This goal was for Batrakov debut in the Turkish club.

The last time among Russians in the Champions League, the goal was scored by Zenit midfielder Magomed Ozdoev. He scored in the group stage match against London Chelsea (3:3) on December 8, 2021.

Before Batrakov, Barcelona of the Russians in European competitions was last scored by Andrei Arshavin in 2011 as part of Arsenal. Only seven Russians scored the Catalan club in European competitions, but only Valery Karpin twice - in 1994 as part of Spartak.

In the 34th minute, Batarkov served a corner, after which the ball was scored by Barysh Yilmaz. However, the goal was cancelled as the referee fixed offside.

Batrakov was replaced in the 58th minute. As a result, Barcelona beat the Turkish “Galatasaray” in the guest match of the second round of the general stage of the Champions League with a score of 4: 1.