Barcelona draw with Atalanta in Montjuïc
After 8 matches played, FC Barcelona have concluded their participation in the first round of the Champions League with a draw against Atalanta. This result was enough to secure their 2nd place finish in the table and a spot in the round of 16. Now, Hansi Flick’s side will have an important rest period before their next match in the competition, which is set to take place sometime in March.
The Italian side proved to be a tough opponent for the home team as they took advantage of Barcelona’s defensive inconsistencies. Despite the LaLiga side having more opportunities on net, Atalanta exploited the ample space given to them in the 18-yard box and converted two goals within 12 minutes.
An offside call negated a Davide Zappacosta goal in the 35th minute of play and allowed Barcelona to get to halftime tied 0-0 and restrategize. Barça lacked clarity in attack, with their forwards unable to create many chances in the first half and Robert Lewandowski constantly playing with his back to goal. However, the second half got off to a quick start for them as a one-touch counterattack between Lewandowski and Raphinha led to a Lamine Yamal goal just two minutes in.
Last year’s Europa League winners demonstrated courage, tying the match twice in the second half. Brazilian midfielder Éderson scored a superb goal in the 67th minute, bringing them level. But only five minutes later, captain Ronald Araújo converted a header off a corner kick to once again give Barcelona the lead, 2-1. The advantage lasted only briefly, and with 11 minutes left to play, Mario Pašalić capitalized on Barcelona’s poor defensive marking to score the final goal of the game, ensuring a 2-2 draw.
The Serie A side finished 9th in the table; therefore, they will need to face either Portuguese giants, Sporting CP or Belgian side Club Brugge in the subsequent round. The matchup will be determined by a live draw set to take place on Friday, January 1st. On the other hand, Barcelona must wait to see who their opponent in the round of 16 will be, as they must face one of the following teams: PSG, Benfica, Monaco, or Brest.