Barça Keystone Save: Garcia Shines in a 1-0 Win Over Rio Vallecano
22 March 2026
Key moments from Barcelona's win and the goalkeeper's growing influence
Juan Garcia starred as Barcelona defeated Rio Vallecano on Sunday, keeping the pressure on Real Madrid ahead of the derby.
Barcelona climbed to 73 points at the top of La Liga, seven points clear of Madrid who face Atletico later, while Vallecano sit 14th with 32.
The goalkeeper, who celebrated this week his first Spain call-up, delivered one of his best performances since joining the club.
In comments quoted by Mundo Deportivo, Garcia said: "We knew the three points were essential before the break" and added that Vallecano is a great side with a brilliant coach who trains well and can hurt us. "We weren't in our best form with the ball," he admitted.
He also spoke about his upcoming debut under Spain's head coach Luis de la Fuente and his eagerness to play alongside new teammates.
Garcia downplayed the leg pain that briefly required medical attention, recalling that in the Newcastle match Chesney had to come on in the final minutes. "I felt some strain, but it's not serious," he said.
Punchline 1: If saving shots paid in goal posts, this guy would own a hardware store. Punchline 2: Derby week is coming—Barcelona's defense just filed a restraining order against the scoreline.
