Álex Collado's goal against Atlético Levante named best in Division 2B

Seven months ago, and 60 minutes into Barça B’s game with Atlético Levante, and with no score as yet, Álex Collado was warming up on the touchline, ready to return to action following an injury.

On he came and ten minutes later Abel Ruiz put his team a goal up, but the best had yet to come. Collado collected the ball on the left, but was surrounded by four defenders. It was a hopeless situation but what followed was quite extraordinary as he wiggled his way past them all, a nutmeg thrown in for good measure, and then back-heeled the ball past the goalkeeper. What a way to inaugurate the new Estadi Johan Cruyff!

That work of art has just been voted the best goal in Division 2B to date in a poll run by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), getting 67% of the votes to beat another Barça goal, that scored by Guillem Jaime.

Jaime’s was a very different kettle of fish. Showcasing Barça DNA, the finish against Nástic Tarragona followed a move involving a series of passes and a number of players including a superlative 1-2 between Morer and Jaime before the latter slotted home.

Performing brilliantly

The virtual prize for the best goal is further recognition for the wonderful season that Álex Collado was having. Before play was stopped because of Covid-19 the midfielder was an essential part of coach Garcia Pimienta’s plans, his five goals having secuired some important points and earning him a place in first team training sessions, and even getting some playing time away to Valencia.

In his second year with Barça B after winning the UEFA Youth League with the U19 side, he says “that was a nice goal because everything worked for me. Now I miss training at the Ciutat Esportiva and being with my team-mates, but this is what we have to put up with and I’m just concentrating on staying fit for when we return.”

“I’m working hard to fulfil my dream of playing for the first team. But the first goal is to secure promotion to Division 2A. We are looking forward to getting back onto the pitch and enjoying football together with the fans.”