In the fifth round of the Champions League, Chelsea defeated Barcelona 3-0. The Spanish media "Daily Sports" reported that Chelsea fans shouted insults during the game: "You are a waste, Yamal."
The provocation of Chelsea fans was intended to disrupt Yamal's rhythm. Every time he touched the ball, the stadium erupted with deafening boos, shouts, and the repeated chant of the song. Although only 18 years old, Yamal has long been accustomed to life in the spotlight. He tried to ignore it, but the atmosphere in the stadium was hostile and the confrontation with Cucurella was extremely difficult.
Cucurella took this match as a personal challenge. He knows what Yamal is capable of better than anyone: he has seen it both in training and in games with Spain. Cucurella therefore went into the game with a high level of focus, initiative and a clear tactical plan. He did not give Yamal any chance to easily turn around, blocked his inside route, and marked him tightly from the beginning of the game. Every time Yamal touched the ball, he was intercepted by Cucurella, whether it was with his legs, shoulders, or any other form of physical contact, which caused him constant trouble.
Cucurella played an important role in the first half. He assisted his teammates to score and caused Araujo to be sent off.