FC Barcelona lose at home right after their 125th anniversary in disappointing fashion. While the game was frustrating from start to finish, it was clear to see that the Catalan giants were not deserving of a good result. Ultimately, Barcelona have now dropped points against Las Palmas in front of their own fans.
A frustrating 2-1 loss at home leaves La Blaugrana in a vulnerable situation in the league, and Real Madrid now have the chance to take the top spot in the league table if they win their two games in hand. A goal from Raphinha was all Barça could muster, but it was far from being enough.
Here are the player ratings for Barcelona.
Player Ratings:
Inaki Pena: 5.0
Should have been positioned much better for the first goal and could have made a more active attempt for the second one. Overall, not exactly the best of performances from Inaki Pena.
Jules Kounde: 5.5
The Frenchman was arguably one of the least effective players on the pitch and that explained why Hansi Flick decided to take him off earlier than expected.
Pau Cubarsi: 6.5
Had a solid outing by himself, but was let down by the overall display of his team’s defensive structure. Was solid both in terms of his play-making from the back but also his defensive actions and positional awareness for most of the game.
Inigo Martinez: 6.0
The Spaniard should have done better for the first goal that the team conceded as he completely let go of the player that he was supposed to make in that situation. Moreover, his overall display left a little more to be desired than his usually impeccable displays.
Alejandro Balde: 6.0
Injured early on in the first half, Alejandro Balde unfortunately did not get the opportunity to make an impact properly. Hopefully he recovers soon.
Gavi: 6.0
Had a decent game but it was clear to see that Marc Casado’s role is one that Gavi is not naturally meant to play. Gavi was much more effective in terms of his offensive actions, and had a few notable defensive contributions as well.
Pedri: 8.0
Yet another beautiful performance from Pedri, and that too against his own former club. His pass to Raphinha for his goal was exquisite, and his overall display was one that was quite commendable as well from start to finish.
Raphinha: 8.0
Arguably the most impactful player for Barcelona in this game alongside Pedri, and for good reason. His goal was the sole reason that the Catalan club could even feel that they could make a timely comeback at some point.
Pablo Torre: 6.5
Had a decent first-half showing and proved that he has what it takes to compete at the highest level with the rest of his teammates. Came off before the second half start, however.
Fermin Lopez: 5.5
For Fermin Lopez, his finishing in front of goal really needs to improve if he wants to continue being a regular for the team. He made the mistake of not finishing off his chances in this game as well, and just like against Brest, it proved to be quite frustrating.
Robert Lewandowski: 6.0
Was kept quiet by Las Palmas for much of the game, and his impact was quite limited as well. Not exactly a performance that the Polish ace will want to remember.
Substitutes:
Gerard Martin: 6.5
Quite solid after coming on early on for Alejandro Balde, and it was clear to see that the Spaniard has seen his confidence grow after his display against Brest:
Lamine Yamal: 5.5
Definitely seems to lack match fitness and it was clear to see that Lamine Yamal was not at his best. A rather dull performance.
Hector Fort: N/A
Not enough time or influence on the game to warrant a rating.
Frenkie de Jong: N/A
Not enough time or influence on the game to warrant a rating.
Ferran Torres: N/A
Not enough time or influence on the game to warrant a rating.