Pedri: The record that places '8' as the most creative player on matchday seven of the Champions

FC Barcelona experienced a memorable day in the match of matchday seven of the UEFA Champions League 2024-25 against SL Benfica. In this encounter, both the course of the game and the final result (4-5) inevitably leads to considering that there were outstanding performances that deserve to be analyzed in more detail.

When discussing this topic, it is essential to mention Pedri González, a player as discreet as he is essential to the functioning of the Barcelona midfield. In particular, the brilliant assist from the Canarian to Eric García for the fourth equalizing goal stands out, a lofted pass into the area so precise that it almost seems like it was placed with his hand.

However, Pedri González's performance went beyond this moment. Whether operating as an advanced midfielder or as a pivot, the player from Tegueste once again demonstrated great freedom across the field, always seeking to provide that touch of distinction to create connections from the midfield towards the front.

The Barcelona 'number 8' consistently took on the responsibility of initiating Barcelona's offensive plays from the back, often finding the free teammate or the space needed to pose a threat against a well-organized defense like that of Benfica.

The stats that place Pedri as the most creative player of matchday 7 in the Champions League

Now, Pedri's effectiveness against Benfica was exemplified, among other things, by the total of six key passes he completed, out of a total of 15 made by Barcelona in that game. It has also been recently revealed that, according to Champions League metrics, the former UD Las Palmas player was the footballer who made the most key passes in all the matches played on matchday seven of this competition.

In this regard, the player from Tenerife narrowly surpassed players like Arne Engels of Celtic Glasgow (five) and Martin Ødegaard of Arsenal (five). These statistics support the importance of Pedri in Barça's offensive framework, demonstrating that his contribution, although perhaps less flashy than scoring a goal, is fundamental to the offensive aspirations of the team.