In the world of women’s football, few players shine as brightly as Barcelona’s midfield maestro, Alexia Putellas. On Thursday, the Spaniard reached a remarkable milestone, netting her 200th goal for the Catalan giants in their UEFA Women’s Champions League clash against Austrian side St. Pölten.
A Left-Footed Laser
The historic moment arrived in the 57th minute, with Barcelona already comfortably leading 3-0. Putellas, known for her precision and poise, unleashed a trademark left-footed strike that arrowed into the corner of the net, leaving the St. Pölten goalkeeper helpless. The goal put Barcelona 4-0 up and on course for their third straight Champions League win this season.
For Putellas, it was a moment to savor in what has been a challenging period. The two-time Ballon d’Or winner missed most of the 2022-23 campaign due to an ACL injury, watching from the sidelines as her team conquered Europe. Her return to form this season has been nothing short of inspirational.
Bouncing Back Stronger
Despite featuring in the Champions League final win over Lyon last term, Putellas began that match on the bench, only entering the fray to score the game-sealing goal. This season, under new coach Pere Romeu, the midfield dynamo has reclaimed her starting berth and repaid that faith with a string of stellar performances.
“When I started at the club, I never imagined I could reach 200 goals. It’s a figure we usually see more with strikers.”
– Alexia Putellas to Diario Sport
Her brace against Real Madrid earlier this month saw her overtake Luis Suárez in Barcelona’s all-time scoring charts, with only Lionel Messi and César Rodríguez now ahead of her. It’s rarefied air for a midfielder, underlining Putellas’ extraordinary impact since rejoining the club in 2012.
Rewriting the Record Books
The 30-year-old’s list of accomplishments is as long as it is impressive. In over 400 appearances for Barcelona, Putellas has won:
- 8 Spanish league titles
- 3 Champions League trophies
- 2 Ballon d’Or awards
Her 200 goals have come in all shapes and sizes – from long-range screamers to delicate chips, thumping penalties to predatory tap-ins. Each one a testament to her skill, intelligence, and indomitable spirit.
“Alexia is a once-in-a-generation player. Her ability to dictate the tempo of a game, find pockets of space, and produce moments of magic is unparalleled. She’s the heartbeat of this Barcelona team.”
– A source close to the Barcelona squad
Chasing Further Glory
With Barcelona top of their Champions League group and flying high domestically, Putellas will have her sights set on more silverware this season. Her partnership with the prolific Asisat Oshoala and creative spark of Mariona Caldentey forms one of the most fearsome attacking trios in world football.
As she reflects on her 200-goal milestone, Putellas will know that her journey is far from over. With Barcelona’s women’s team going from strength to strength, the midfield maestro looks poised to etch her name even deeper into the annals of footballing history.
For now, though, it’s a moment to celebrate. A moment to recognize the artistry, the dedication, and the sheer brilliance of Alexia Putellas – a player who has not just lit up the Champions League, but illuminated the entire footballing landscape.
