According to Spanish news outlet Sport via El Chiringuito, Xavi Hernandez was extremely upset with his team during the half-time break because Barcelona was not being able to convert their chances. The Catalans faced off a very disciplined Galatasaray side on Thursday and were unable to break through their tough defense. The game was held in Camp Nou and thus there was a huge advantage for the Blaugrana but they could not capitalize on that and were instead left frustrated by the amazing defending from the Turkish side. Inaki Pena was an added barrier, as the keeper was on top form and even when the defense messed up, he was there to save the day.
The Spanish media reported that the former Barca legend accused the players of not being creative enough and not having the drive to break through the defensive wall set up by Galatasaray. According to El Chiringuito, the coach said that whoever does not feel like playing should not play. These accusations are obviously quite serious but also a bit baseless. While it would be natural for Xavi to feel frustrated after his team had almost seventy percent of possession but nothing to show for themselves, these comments would be a bit out of place given the way the Turkish giants defended.
Barcelona failed to score against Galatasaray
Barca had 16 shots on goal compared to Cimbom’s three but at the end of the day, the visitors had a defensive set-up and are going back home with a big advantage. The score remained 0-0 after the full-time whistle however, it will be a huge morale boost for the Turks who will now host the Catalans on their own home soil. Barca have work to do and Xavi needs to find a way to break these stubborn teams who will happily park the bus till the end of the game and hope for a lucky counterattack.
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