Barcelona take away a point from San Mamés
Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde decided to field a very strong starting lineup, which turned out to be correct one. Athletic Bilbao often hit the Barça defence very hard. But the Blaugrana prevailed, and extended their lead at the top of the La Liga table to 6 points with a goalless draw.
Athletic had most of the early chances. In the 7th minute, Marc-André ter Stegen was called upon as Markel Susaeta hit a curler from outside the box. The German goalkeeper produced an excellent save to deny the Txingurri the lead.
His mistake led to another chance, but Raúl García‘s overhead kick was saved comfortably by Ter Stegen. Lionel Messi also hit the crossbar early on as his ball putting Nélson Semedo on goal was diverted by Iago Herrerín, and the Argentine hit a lob from very far out.
García had another opportunity in the 41st minute from almost point-blank range. But it was blocked by Sergi Roberto, and went past the post. But the referee did not award the goal-kick in a controversial decision that attracted the ire of San Mamés.
The next big chance came in the 82nd minute, and it was for Los Leones. Athletic bombed down the right wing, and Iñaki Williams received the ball in the box. But the Spanish centre-forward’s shot was saved by Ter Stegen, who showed tremendous reflexes.
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Williams had another opportunity, but failed to convert yet again. He was made to rue this missed chance, as it was the last clear-cut opportunity of the game and he was taken off soon after. Barça were extremely lucky to pick up a point, with Athletic Bilbao dominating for much of the match.
Lionel Messi was very poor in the second-half, despite showing glimpses of his brilliance in the first-half. His mobility was nullified due to his fitness level, and the Argentine maestro failed to pull off dribbles. Arturo Vidal also had one of his worst games since joining the club.
Marc-André ter Stegen was the man-of-the-match clearly. His absolutely superb saves effectively guaranteed a point for Barça. The 26-year old shot-stopper showed why he is considered among the best goalkeepers in the world.
Clément Lenglet and Sergio Busquets also put in a great performance. Luis Suárez will be disappointed with his showing for the second consecutive match. Jordi Alba was sorely missed, but Nélson Semedo did well in the left-back spot.
Barça were very poor from the start of the game. Despite having 67% possession, Gaizka Garitano’s Athletic side closed down the team with ease. They hit Barcelona on the counter, and came close on multiple occasions.