Barcelona compete, win, but they don't shine at Osasuna

It was a struggle for Barcelona to take the lead in Pamplona. The play in the first 45 minutes wasn't brilliant, and few chances were created, but the team seems to be gaining consistency gradually. Gundogan brings quality, Oriol Romeu has understood his role perfectly in the team, and De Jong has stepped up with Busquets' absence. Additionally, Kounde, when playing as a central defender, is a reliable option and, as he demonstrated, has a good header. However, the Blaugranas reached halftime without much fanfare, without convincing, but with the score in their favour.

The second half didn't start any better than the first, and Barcelona was playing with fire. Osasuna took possession from them, and Xavi was rightfully frustrated on the sidelines. From the 65th to the 70th minute, the possession was 70% in favour of the home team. Something unheard of and unacceptable that can only lead to disaster. So, the coach brought on Cancelo and turned to Ferran Torres, but even then, the team didn't improve. And, of course, Osasuna ended up scoring. Chimy Ávila emulated Messi with an unstoppable goal. In the midst of such chaos, Joao Felix made his debut, which almost coincided with the penalty awarded to Lewandowski. Barça's number 9 scored, they celebrated it as if it were the game of their lives, and they took home three important points.

This Barcelona team still has a long way to go to be a team that intimidates their rivals. They don't showcase the quality their players possess, and their inconsistent play empowers their opponents. However, they compete until the end. There is no doubt about the attitude of their players. Nevertheless, a big team should not end up suffering like they did in Getafe or against Osasuna. The cliché says that these are the games you must win to conquer La Liga. It's true, but it's not the same to win through good play as it is through sheer resilience. So, these were three points that lacked brilliance.