In what was the toughest match so far for the Catalans as Rayo Vallecano managed to control the game and secured a brilliant point in a match where they even seemed to deserve more.
Both teams shared possession in midfield throughout the game, but Barça could not take advantage due to the high pressing that characterized Rayo’s style.
The “Giant Killer” did not play defensively. On the contrary, the team from the capital played as equals, chasing every ball and applying constant pressure on Barça’s lines. It is no surprise that the Blaugranas only managed three shots on target in the first half and a couple more in the second, none of them truly dangerous.
In the first half, Rayo repeatedly reached Barça’s area through long passes down the flanks, exploiting space. Although the Catalan side also approached the rival’s box, their strategy was forced through the middle, generating only one real chance through Raphinha (28’).
It was not until the 36th minute that Lamine Yamal, who had been almost invisible until then, entered Rayo’s box and earned a penalty in a play that questioned the ability and vision of the referee. Two minutes later, he scored the penalty himself with a powerful shot to the goalkeeper’s right, putting Hansi Flick’s team ahead.
Barcelona’s wingers looked uncomfortable and were unable to create real danger for Batall's goal. Lamine touched the ball very little, and Raphinha had to take the lead, moving inside so that Eric García and Pedri could attempt long passes, which proved ineffective.
Despite this, the Catalans started the second half with an undeserved lead, and for the first twenty minutes they seemed slightly more comfortable. Possession remained balanced, though Barça focused more on the left wing, using Raphinha to try to break through. However, their control was sterile and unproductive.
At the 63rd minute, Flick attempted to shake things up by sending on Rashford and Fermín López for Raphinha and Olmo. Although Rashford tried, he was confined to the wing and could not make a significant impact. Fermín, who had been in the spotlight during the week due to transfer rumors, failed to connect with his teammates, although he seemed relaxed and comfortable while on the bench.
On the other hand, Rayo had several opportunities to score, sticking to their strategy of long passes into space down the wings, followed by cutbacks and shots. Not surprisingly, they had two goals disallowed in this way. They eventually equalized in the 66th minute with a goal from a corner, when Fran Pérez, completely unmarked at the far post, made it 1-1.
Joan García was the most valuable player of the match, frustrating the visitors with decisive saves.
The game leaves many questions for Barça fans. Despite Lamine’s penalty goal, the Blaugranas created few clear chances. Will Hansi Flick manage to lift the team’s level of performance? Only time will tell.