Barcelona left it late to secure the three points when they visited Getafe on Saturday. The hosts were determined to bring the game to Barca from the initial whistle and, thanks to their high pressing and that crucial extra degree of energy applied, they were ultimately unlucky to come away from the game without a single point to show for their sacrifice.
Ernesto Valverde decided to field his preferred starting eleven with the only exception of Sergi Roberto for the in-form Nelson Semedo. The manager’s idea was not as effective as expected, however, given the fact that his Barcelona lineup looked tired throughout the game and, what’s worse, disappointigly unfocused during large periods.
Fortunately for Cules, Barca decided to step up a gear in the second half, especially after both Denis Suarez and Paulinho were subbed on. An increase of purposeful passing and success when running at defenders resulted in goals from both subsititutes and yet another three points, extending the Blaugranas’ perfect start to the season.
Undoubtedly, Ousmane Dembele’s hamstring injury is the worst news to take away from the game. The French international is to undergo further tests in the Catalan capital tomorrow but, judging by his facial expressions and body language when leaving the pitch, he is likely to be away from action for a considerable period of time. Here’s hoping our No.11 recovers soon!
Match Stats:
Here are Francesc Tomas’ Player Ratings:
Ter Stegen – 7
Sergi Roberto – 6
Umtiti – 8
Pique – 7
Alba – 6
Busquets – 6
Rakitic – 6
Iniesta – 6
Dembele – n/a
Suarez – 5
Messi – 7
Subs:
Deulofeu – 6
Denis Suarez – 7
Paulinho – 8
Want more Barca? In Episode 33 of The Barcelona Podcast, we break down Valverde’s winning streak, analyse Semedo’s progress and more! Listen now:
