Barcelona’s poor start to the season continued with a 2-0 defeat at Granada in La Liga.
Lionel Messi and Ansu Fati both started on the bench, but were summoned at half-time after the Catalans failed to responded to Ramon Azeez scoring the opener inside two minutes.
Despite improving in the second period with Messi and Fati driving forward, Arturo Vidal’s hand ball saw Alvaro Vadillo convert from the spot in the 66th minute to complete a famous win for the hosts.
Here, we look at the performances of Barca’s players.
STARTING XI (4-3-3)
Ter Stegen 5 – An uncharacteristically nervy display from the highly rated shot-stopper. Not at fault for either goal, though.
Semedo 4 – Was under pressure defensively and not the most composed on the ball. Ineffective going forward.
Pique 4 – Ball deflected off him for the opener. Good on the ball, but grew frustrated as attackers got the better off him.
Lenglet 5 – Weak an aerial duel as the ball went through for the first goal. One of the better defenders, apart from that error.
Firpo 2 – Made not one, but two errors leading to the opening goal. Never looked comfortable, was caught out of position and misplaced passes. Hooked at half-time.
De Jong 6 – Tidy with his passing and even tried to carry the ball forward when he could. Had little support around him though.
Roberto 5 – A typically bland performance, first in midfield and then at right-back in the second half.
Rakitic 4 – Was meant to be the experienced head in midfield with Sergio Busquets on the bench, but never took control of proceedings.
Carles Perez 4 – Had one good cross in the first half but anonymous otherwise. Made way for Messi at half-time.
Luis Suarez 3 – Looks increasingly like a player well past his prime rather than one out of form. Sluggish, laborious movements as the blunt edge of Barca’s attack.
Antoine Griezmann 4 – Not quite past it just yet, but certainly on his way down. Not helped by operating in a system that doesn’t accommodate him effectively.
SUBS
Messi (46′) 6 – His introduction gave Barcelona a pulse as he created a few inroads. Messi’s mere presence caused a bit of chaos in the final third.
Fati (46′) 6 – Looked a threat and with Messi – who tried to find him at every occasion – provided a spark for Barca.
Vidal (62′) 3 – Conceded a penalty for hand ball just when Fati and Messi were building up a head of steam. Granada’s second from the spot killed the tie.
