“Getafe Holds Barcelona: Flick’s Side Fails to Take Advantage of Atlético’s Slip”
Barcelona’s Brilliant Frontline Disappears as Hansi Flick’s Team Fails to Capitalize on Atlético Madrid’s Defeat
Barcelona was held to a disappointing 1-1 draw at Getafe, extending their poor form in La Liga on Saturday night. Barça, who had won their last two games in the Super Cup and Copa del Rey with dominant 5-1 and 5-2 victories, finally managed to score at Getafe for the first time since September 2019. Jules Koundé found the net in the ninth minute, beating goalkeeper David Soria on his second attempt.
Raphinha had a golden chance to make it 2-0 after half an hour, but his close-range header only found the side netting. The visitors paid for their missed opportunities almost immediately.
Goalkeeper Iñaki Peña could only parry a volley from Koba Da Costa into the path of Mauro Arambarri, who inadvertently equalized in the 34th minute.
Robert Lewandowski had a great chance to restore Barça’s lead just before halftime, but his misplaced header went narrowly wide.
Substitute Frenkie de Jong forced a fine save from Soria, who was barely tested throughout the match, while the misfiring Raphinha wasted another big opportunity.
Flick’s team was frustrated with Getafe’s time-wasting tactics and theatrics, but José Bordalás’ well-organized side deserved their point.
The result means Barcelona—having won just one of their last eight league matches—failed to take advantage of Atlético Madrid’s shocking loss to Leganés earlier in the day. Meanwhile, Real Madrid had the chance to go top of La Liga on Sunday.
Player Ratings for Barcelona at Estadio Coliseum
Iñaki Peña, goalkeeper and defense (5/10):
Should have pushed Da Costa’s shot to safety instead of directing it back into traffic, which led to Getafe’s equalizer.
Jules Koundé (7/10): Scored for the second time in two games, showcasing his attacking instincts. Delivered some dangerous crosses but occasionally needed more composure in defense.
Ronald Araújo (7/10): Returning from a long injury layoff, the towering defender put in a solid performance at the back.
Pau Cubarsí (6/10): Lost sight of the ball during Getafe’s equalizer and was caught behind Arambarri. However, he made some crucial tackles later in the game.
Alejandro Balde (6/10): Made frequent attacking runs but left his flank exposed at times.
Midfield
Marc Casadó (6/10): Didn’t make many mistakes but also didn’t contribute much. Substituted at halftime by Flick.
Pedri (7/10): Provided a sharp, beautiful pass to assist Koundé’s opener and looked like one of the few players capable of breaking down Getafe’s defense.
Gavi (6/10): Has been in excellent form recently but couldn’t make a significant impact in this match. Replaced by Dani Olmo.
Attack Raphinha (5/10): Had an off-night, lacking sharpness in front of goal and in his overall attacking play. He will regret missing some crucial chances.
Lewandowski, Robert (5/10): The experienced striker struggled to make an impact and failed to deliver when needed.
Lamine Yamal (6/10): Showed flashes of skill and flair but sometimes made poor decisions in key moments.
