FC Barcelona got back to winning ways after a 0-0 draw against Vallecano at home last week. The Catalans were under a lot of pressure after a below-par display last week at the Camp Nou. Coach Xavi was critical of the way Barcelona did not take their chances in the first game of La Liga. The Second game was always going to be a difficult one given the quality of the opponent. Barcelona have always had problems playing away at the Anoeta. But the test was passed with flying colors after what was a difficult and intense start to the game.
The game lived up to its hype as Barcelona scored in the 1st minute through Robert Lewandowski. The birthday boy showed great striker movement as he finished the cutback from Alejandro Balde. But soon Barcelona paid for their 3 Centre back Formation as La Real kept coming. They scored through Aleksander Isak who chipped the ball over Marc Andre Ter Stegen. However, It was a brilliant recovery challenge by Eric Garcia who was unlucky to concede the goal.
La Real kept coming and tested Barcelona’s new formation quite vigorously. Marc Andre Ter Stegen was at his best as he pulled off a number of impressive saves. Barcelona were struggling for a major part of the first half as they were trying a new formation. Ronald Araujo looked lost at the RCB position. It was looking as if they were missing Captain Sergio Busquets in the midfield. Ferran Torres was mostly playing in a central role in what was his first game of the season.
Golden Boy Ansu Fati changes the game
Xavi could see that Barcelona needed changes and fresh legs. The second half kicked off and the Catalans started having more control of the game. The coach brought on Ansu Fati and Raphinha to get the needed pace and decisiveness. The substitutions were top-notch as they paid off minutes earlier. Raphinha, Fati, and Dembele combined brilliantly to score the 2nd for the Blaugranas. Soon after, a combination of Pedri, Fati, and Lewandowski would combine to score the 3rd as Barcelona took over the game.
Ansu Fati capped off a brilliant performance with a goal after a sublime assist by Lewandowski. The 19-year-old was influential and might just be the starter for every game over Ferran Torres. However, it is important to mention that his physical condition must be taken care of at this time. Xavi has told the staff that his return to action cannot be rushed. This game was a tough test that proved Xavi’s brilliant man management. We are in for a great season!
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