Barcelona hosted rivals Real Madrid in what was surely the worst Clasico since the 0-0 draw between them in 2002. This Clasico felt odd from the get go. With it being on a Wednesday and postponed seven weeks from the original date, the normal hype surrounding the biggest match in club football was not there. This was a decaffeinated version of El Clasico. With that being said, Barcelona and Real Madrid are level on points, but Barcelona stay in first place based off of goal differential.
Barcelona hosted rivals Real Madrid in what was surely the worst Clasico since the 0-0 draw between both sides in 2002. This Clasico felt odd from the get go. With it being on a Wednesday and postponed seven weeks from the original date, the normal hype surrounding the biggest match in club football was not there. This was a decaffeinated version of El Clasico. With that being said, Barcelona and Real Madrid are level on points. But Barcelona stay in first place based off of goal differential.
Pique with a great match
Overall, the Barcelona backline was efficient, sniffing out any danger Real Madrid posed. Pique was excellent once again and was never caught out of position and even cleared the ball off the line on one occasion in the first half. Ter Stegen was arguably the man of the match once again. He was tested often in the first half but easily dealt with every shot that came his way. The German was impressive on the ball as well, often starting the play from his own area and finding the right outlet to begin Barcelona’s attack. Another solid performance from Ter Stegen which has become the norm.
Barcelona will feel as though they let this match slip away from them, but also feel fortunate to not concede. Overall a tie was fair for the match. A few concerns though as Madrid’s midfield had its way with Barcelona’s midfield. Aside from De Jong, Barcelona’s midfield posed little threat in creating any real chance. Arthur’s presence is heavily felt and Barcelona will need his to return from injury as soon as possible.
Barcelona will host Alaves on Saturday in what will be the last match for Barcelona in 2019.
