Which players make up the best XI??

In order to beat your opponent, you have to understand you opponent. Thus, I will initially attempt to define the team and its characteristics from various aspects.


The very first step is to define which players constitute the best XI.



Goalkeeper: Victor Valdes

There is very little doubt about Valdes' position within the team. Despite the fact that he is not the best goalkeeper in the world, Valdes has consistently defended the barca goal for the last 10 seasons, and will continue to do so this season.

Right-Back: Dani Alves

Aside from his defensive skills, Alves' overlapping ability and cross in general allow Barca to effectively create and use space.

Left-Back: Jordi Alba

Alba will operate from left-back for Barcelona and provide the thrust and penetration from deep that a succession of players have been unable to do as well as Alves can on the opposite side.

Centre Backs: Javier Mascherano and Gerard Pique

With Carlos Puyol out for the season due to an injury, Mascherano will reestablish himself as a key member of the team. In combination with Pique's more adventurous, aggressive playing style, Mascherano will be able to bring more stability in the defensive third.

Defensive Midfielder: Sergio Busquets

Busquets will continue to link the defense to the mid, keeping the play relatively simple but sometimes showing the courage to break forward when space is available. And of course, his defensive skills provide Barca with a reliable second line of defense.

Central Midfield: Xavi Hernandez and Cesc Fabregas

Xavi, as one of the world's best mid fielders, will help Barca retain possession in the attacking third and create opportunities  Cesc Fabregas, along with Xavi, will look for space and spread the ball when needed, setting the tempo of the game.

Wide Forwards: Alexis Sanchez and Andres Iniesta

Both having amazing close control and ability to get past defenses, their link-ups with Xavi and Fabregas will continue to terrorize the defenses.

Centre Forward: Lionel Messi

No justification needed. His numbers speak for themselves. Barca without Messi wouldn't be the best.

Topic

I chose to research on the best tactic and formation to defeat FC Barcelona's best XI in 2012-2013. Football is my favorite sport, and I enjoy analyzing football matches tactically. Considering how FC Barcelona is one of the best teams this season, it appeared imperative to devise a way to defeat them.