Carles Puyol, Daniel Alves, Xavi Hernández, Andrés Iniesta, Lionel Messi and David Villa have all been included in the 23-man shortlist for the FIFA Ballon d’Or nomination.
The win in Zaragoza was the fourth on the run and marked the team’s best ever start to a season on the road. There have been five seasons when the team won their first three away games, but never before, their first four.
Leo Messi has scored his 31st international goal for Barça, thus equalling the record set by Rivaldo. He also ties Alcántara as the fifth highest scorer in club history.
Spanish team features no less than seven regulars from the Catalan champions. In a surprising week, Brazil and Argentina were sent home, while Spain reached semi-finals for the first time in its history.
FC Barcelona coach Josep Guardiola knew that by signing David Villa, the team would have a guarantee when it comes to scoring goals. The World Cup in South Africa is not proving them wrong.
