Comment: Barcelona improved but it was just not enough
The duel with Madrid was a test of fire for Barcelona and although they improved, they did not pass, paying a high price
Barcelona needed to win the Clasico to stay alive in La Liga. But above all, to recover the confidence lost after their slip ups against Malaga and Real Sociedad. In face the duel with Madrid was a test of fire for a team that seemed to have lost its identity. And with that, 12 points in 13 weeks that put their title bid in danger. Barcelona were obliged to achieve a victory. A victory that would be the start of their recovery. But the victory, lamentably, did not arrive. And Barcelona are still feeling it. Too much.
The first half was marked by imprecisions from a Barcelona without control and offensive resources. Without football, essentially. While Madrid, with their rugged style found it easy to get to Ter Stegen’s area. And Los Blancos needed little to create danger. It was the opposite for Barcelona. In fact, Keylor Navas was a spectator in the first half. Despite needing to win the game more they were incapable of creating a single shot on goal.
In the second half everything changed. A miracle header from Luis Suarez broke Madrid. The Uruguayan forward made it 1-0 and the scene was transformed. It was helped, of course, by Andres Iniesta’s entrance. Barcelona returned to be a recognisable team and started dominating the game. Playing how they know, Barcelona can beat any rival. Including Real Madrid. And it was made clear in the second half where through Neymar and Messi they could have ramped up their advantage. But they were not accurate. And they paid a high price. Too high. Because Sergio Ramos (SERGIO RAMOS AGAIN!!!) equalised with another header, a sobering one, in the final minute. A goal that knocked-out Barcelona. And allowed Madrid to keep their six point advantage.
Barcelona improved. But it was not enough. A pity.
