Not the best performance from La Blaugrana by any sort of far-fetched imagination, but all that matters are the precious three points. Steering 6 points clear of Real Madrid, who will be facing the challenge of Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic Club at San Mamés an hour later.
Player Ratings:
Marc Andre Ter Stegen: 8.0
Had a brilliant first half, and made two crucial saves. Was the major reason why Barcelona kept a clean sheet. Composed in distribution, the german shot-stopper looked to have found his level again, and might well be on his way to his first Zamora trophy.
Sergi Roberto: 6.5
A decent performance from the Barcelona veteran defensively. Enjoyed more involvement in the second half of the match, but was substituted on the 77’ minute.
Jules Kounde: 7.5
Another sound performance from the Frenchmen, who was present in the right places at the right time and grew massively in the game as time passed by. Had a few shaky moments but he more than made up for those with his positional awareness and defensive prowess.
Andreas Christensen: 7.5
A brilliant shift from the Danish centre back in Barcelona colours. He bailed the team out of a possible 1v1 situation and also played a key role in Barcelona’s only goal. Reportedly, he suffered a knock in the first half and was called off as a precautionary measure.
Alejandro Balde: 7.0
The youngster never ceases to amaze. The stupendous amount of game understanding, pace and technicality he has for his age is frightening. He looked good while inverting and overlapping, and also made good runs into the box. He was subbed off at half-time.
Gavi: 7.5
The Golden boy continued his brilliant run of form against Getafe as well. The best midfielder tonight for the home side, being reliable in possession, carrying the ball forward and with an immense work rate.
Sergio Busquets: 7.0
Won possession on numerous occasions and also was the architect in the buildup. Had some nervy moments in the second half, but overall a decent performance from the veteran.
Pedri: 7.5
A major creative outlet for Xavi’s system again, playing as an advanced “8” while making offensive runs. Scored a sublime goal, but things could have been embarrassing for him if Mayoral had converted the chance he had, courtesy of a loose pass from him.
Ousmane Dembele: 6.5
The Frenchman needs to work on his productivity. Made a nasty challenge in the 68th minute, and was lucky for not being sent off and only received a yellow card.
Ansu Fati: 6.0
Not a good game for the young Spaniard. Had a couple of good chances, but failed to take advantage of those. Was not playing in his natural position so his arrival in the box was altered which might have instigated poor reception. Could have done much better knowing his potential.
Raphinha: 7.0
Started the game on the right, but was shifted to the left after he was neutralized by Getafe’s low block. Had a moment in the first half to latch on to, and the Brazilian grabbed the opportunity with open arms, laying a pin-point early cross for Pedri who opened the scoring at Camp Nou. Had a few teasing deliveries in the box in the second set of 45 minutes as well.
Substitutes Ratings:
Jordi Alba: 6.5
Looked threatening offensively but had a shaky performance defensively as he was bailed out by his fellow defenders on numerous occasions. Looked comfortable when Xavi switched to a 3-at-the-back system.
Eric Garcia: 7.0
A good game for him especially after recovering from his injury. Was on point positionally and was good in ball distribution as usual.
Franck Kessie: 6.5
The Ivorian looked out of place initially, but the last game against Ceuta served as a major confidence boost for the ex-Rossoneri. He looked more involved in the buildup and arrived in better positions. Also had a half-decent attempt at the goal, but was saved by a stupendous dive from David Soria.
Marcos Alonso: N/A
Not enough time on the field to warrant a rating.
