FCBARCELONA.CAT

24.02.2010 12:21

Milito back to his best

Sandra Sarmiento

22 months after picking up a serious injury at Old Trafford, the Argentine centre half has made his comeback in the Champions League.

Manchester 2008. Stuttgart 2010. Two cities, two stadiums, two opponents that will forever feature in Gaby Milito’s life story. On the one hand the match in Manchester saw Barça knocked out of the Champions League. But for Milito it was the start of a long painful journey that ended just after Christmas with a Cup match against Sevilla. Next he made his Spanish league comeback away to Tenerife. But Milito has had to wait a little bit longer to return to European action – but the day finally arrived against Stuttgart.

Valdés, providential

It comes to no surprise to any football fan that has been following Barça’s progress recently. Valdés is in fantastic form and in Stuttgart he kept Barça in the tie with some great saves. He’s getting better with age and is equally effective with his feet and his hands. He’s a solid gold guarantee for Barça.

Ibra back in the goals

Last night Ibra dispelled any doubts about his ability to score in the big matches. His goal in Stuttgart could well send Barça into the quarterfinals. His personal tally for the season stands at 15, two of those goals coming in the last three matches. He’s now tied with Pedro in the ranking of Barça goal scorers.