Arsenal skillfully executed everything they needed to defeat Barça: shut down their best players, give their all physically, and create danger by running as soon as they had possession. It wasn't a foolproof plan, because it depended on Barça's proven scoring ability, but it ultimately worked because football is a sport where theoretical deficits narrow as the minutes tick by, and those carrying the weight of the match can't find a way to break the deadlock, either through collective play or individual bursts. In fact, Arsenal could have started the upset much earlier if not for Cata Coll, who saved two decisive goals before the game's deciding goal was conceded. Barça has had a line of work and investment for years that suggests they will play in more European finals.
And Espanyol will continue to play in the First Division, a league that belongs to them based on history. The ownership and management of the club is another matter, as they have been unable for many years to ensure that a long-established club with the necessary resources of a city like Barcelona doesn't have to live on the brink of the Second Division. If management doesn't improve, it suggests they'll be playing in more... agonizing finals. Special mention must go to coach Manolo González, who returned the team to the First Division last year and has saved their place this year. There will continue to be three Catalan teams in the First Division, after Girona's continued victories, while Madrid, which is emptying the Castillas, also in terms of football, has gone from five to four teams with Leganés' relegation.
