Barca Blaugranes - La Liga: Malaga CF vs FC Barcelona: Full Match Coverage#GraciesTitohttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47187/barca-fave.png2013-08-26T12:05:59+02:00http://www.barcablaugranes.com/rss/stream/44202152013-08-26T12:05:59+02:002013-08-26T12:05:59+02:00La Liga: Barcelona 1-0 Malaga: Player Ratings
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<figcaption>Denis Doyle</figcaption>
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<p>A detailed, player-by-player breakdown of Barcelona's 1-0 La Liga win over Malaga CF at La Rosaleda on Sunday night</p> <p><style type="text/css" media="screen"> .dots { background:url('http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/1019395/dot.gif') repeat-x bottom;}.statcont { float:right;width:160px;padding:3px;margin:0px 0px 6px 12px;background-color: #EEEEEE}.statwords {background-color: #EEEEEE;}</style></p>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Victor Valdés</td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>8.3</em></td> </tr> <tr><td style="vertical-align: top; font-size: 12px;" colspan="2"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>90</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>24</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>9</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>78%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Shots Faced: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>3</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Saves Made: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>3</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Jordan says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>8.5</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <span> </span><div style="text-align: justify;"> <p class="MsoNormal">My personal man of the match, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a>’s number one was absolutely fantastic on the night. Facing a scrappy and surprisingly dangerous Malaga side, VV again showed why he’s so undeserving of the criticism he receives, and why he’s one of the world’s most underrated keepers. Confident, composed, and acrobatic, Valdes completed a higher percentage of his passes than all but four of Malaga’s players at a stunning 78%, and made three pivotal saves to keep the clean sheet. Besides an excellent stop at his near post on a free kick early on, Victor denied a point blank header in stoppage time and the follow up shot in expert fashion. His only blemish was a somewhat erratic commitment to a streaking <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110632/roque-santa-cruz">Roque Santa Cruz</a>, who put the Barca stopper on his back before crossing to Fabrice, who, luckily, sent his rushed shot off the post. Overall, VV gave a performance which should remind all fans how difficult he’ll be to replace come next season.</p> <p> </p> </div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves">Adriano Correia</a></td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>8.0</em></td> </tr> <tr><td style="vertical-align: top; font-size: 12px;" colspan="2"> <div class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>45</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>54</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>32</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>81%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1/1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>2</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>3</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Jordan says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>7.5</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <p class="MsoNormal">In a nutshell, this was a classic Adriano game which showed Cules just how much the Brazilian can contribute and how much he can’t contribute. Getting the rare start at right back, Adriano began strongly. Composed in the tackle, he covered well for Pique, while offering reliable associative play in the offensive end. While not possessing the outrageous pace of Alba, Adriano put in a solid shift until late in the first half, when, after receiving a back pass from Alexis Sanchez, the former <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/sevilla">Sevilla</a> man did what he’s done on numerous occasions: deftly touching the ball to his left foot, he unleashed a curving strike that dipped under the diving Willy Caballero and nestled itself in the far corner of the net. The eventual game winner was a gem of a goal which solidifies Adriano as one of the few fullbacks in world football capable of cutting inside and shooting with their off foot. Unfortunately, as Cules are also used to, Adriano was forced off at half time due to the dreaded "thigh discomfort."</p> <p> </p> </div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110855/gerard-pique">Gerard Pique</a></td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>6.2</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>90</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>90</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>77</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>92%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>4</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>4</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>2</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Jordan says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>7.0</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <p class="MsoNormal">Largely unspectacular, Pique put together a solid performance which did what was needed. Heading a number of crosses clear at the back, Geri also made four tackles. For the most part, he was impressive stepping forward and, along with his partner Mascherano, initiated attacks from the back with precision. While he didn’t exactly cover himself in glory on a few occasions -- namely a Santa Cruz run which exposed the defense and failure to deal with an uncontested header in stoppage time -- this type of performance is what Barca needs from Pique this season. He picked up no cards, was capable in dealing with attacks, passed well, was strong aerially, and didn’t injure himself. The only negatives were a few silly dispossessions when dwelling on the ball going forward and his low aerial success rate in the offensive end.</p> <p> </p> </div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110053/javier-mascherano" class="sbn-auto-link">Javier Mascherano</a></td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>7.3</em></td> </tr> <tr><td style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;" colspan="2"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>90</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>98</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>92</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>91%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>2</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>2</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>2</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Aerial Duels Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Jordan says:</strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em> 7.5</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <div align="justify"> <p class="MsoNormal">After a relatively poor prior year, and no defensive reinforcements in the summer, the current season will be a huge test for the Argentine converted defensive midfielder. Tasked with shouldering much of the team’s defensive responsibility until <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110856/carles-puyol">Carles Puyol</a> returns from injury, if Mascherano keeps up this kind of form Barca should look elsewhere on the back line for reinforcements. Mascherano was largely perfect on the evening, covering swiftly for Jordi Alba’s rampages forward and snuffing out counter attacks (one in the 35th in particular was artfully dealt with as Pique was caught upfield), before initiating attacks with long diagonals to the wingers. A tactical feature under new coach ‘Tata’ Martino has seen increasing involvement from both center backs in building attacks, rather than Iniesta and Xavi picking up the balls in deep locations. Mascherano was brilliant both offensively and defensively, although lost a bit of concentration in the final ten minutes. Coming off a MOTM performance against Atleti, it’s clear ‘Machete’s’ good form wasn’t a fluke.</p> <p> </p> </div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><span>Jordi Alba</span></td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>5.7</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>90</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>93</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>66</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>95%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>2</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>3</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>2</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>4</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Jordan says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><em><strong>6.5</strong></em></span> </div> </div> <div align="justify"> <p class="MsoNormal">Arguably the most frustrating player currently wearing Blaugrana, Alba is the victim of being a fantastic player poorly suited both tactically and physically to this year’s Barca squad. On the night, Alba could best be called inconsistent. His classic runs forward were incredible, and his sheer pace and quickness were always a danger to Malaga’s defense. The unfortunate part is at the other end, where a defender must, you know, defend. Alba was frequently caught out high up the field, specifically early on when Iniesta was unusually dispossessed. The ‘Flying Squirrel’ was also responsible for giving up a silly foul resulting in a free kick; fortunately dealt with by Victor Valdes with a diving stop. While these were dealt with (usually by a covering Mascherano), Jordi almost let the three points slip away in stoppage time, gifting Malaga with sloppy possession play twice in the span of only a few seconds. That said, no one can doubt his energy in the press, ability to intercept, and excellence on the overlap.</p> <p> </p> </div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><span>Alex Song</span></td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>6.0</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>90</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>72</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>61</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>92%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>3</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Interceptions: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Fouls: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>3</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Sam says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><em><strong>8.0</strong></em></span> </div> </div> <div align="justify"> <p class="MsoNormal">Filling in <span>Sergio Busquets</span>’ traditional role, Alex Song impressed in areas not always shown by Busquets. Song presented a much stronger attacking threat and had he produced a better cross, he may have had an assist in the second half when he sprung clear of Malaga’s offside trap. The ex-Arsenal man also troubled the Malaga goal early on, with a powerful header from a corner that was aimed straight at Willy Caballero. On the defensive side, Song also had a good game. Tracking runs and making strong tackles meant Malaga rarely threatened the Barcelona goal for the majority of the match. One downside to his game is his inability to judge the game as well as Busquets but overall a good night for Song.</p> <p> </p> </div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Xavi</td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>6.4</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>90</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>109</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>92</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>92%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1/1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Turnovers:</span><span class="statwords"><strong>4</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>5</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Sam says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>7.5</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <div><p class="MsoNormal">Similar to Iniesta, Xavi was allowed room in Malaga’s half allowing for a greater control of the game. Stereotypically, Xavi’s passing was the highlight of his game, tying with Mascherano for most passes completed, although Xavi would like to have been more of an attacking presence. The Barça number six did manage a shot on target but lacked when it came to getting close to a goal scoring opportunity, perhaps a sign of fatigue after playing three games in a row. The veteran midfielder preferred his quarterback role, dictating play from further back and almost filling in for the lack of Sergio Busquets as the pivot. Having started the last three games, it’s quite likely that we will see Xavi benched for the Supercopa.</p></div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110863/andres-iniesta">Andrés Iniesta</a></td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>6.5</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>83</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>96</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>75</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>96%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1/1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>3</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>6</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Sam says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>8.0</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <div align="justify"> <p class="MsoNormal">Having more space to roam than during the match midweek against Atletico, meant Iniesta had a greater influence on the game and finished with the highest pass completion rate of the starting eleven. The Barcelona number eight showed a strong attacking side to his game, using his trademark close control to weave past Malaga defenders before looking to play the likes of Pedro or Alexis in. Iniesta also had a shot of his own saved during the first half, a side-footed effort from outside the area which in the end was conformably saved. Perhaps unconventionally, Iniesta favoured a few long ball passes over short passes tonight and these diagonal lobs proved an effective way of introducing Alexis and Pedro to the game. A solid night for Iniesta who will now be hoping he can produce the same kind of performance midweek.</p> <p> </p> </div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110173/alexis-sanchez" class="sbn-auto-link">Alexis Sánchez</a></td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>7.0</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>90</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>48</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>33</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>76%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1/1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>5</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>4</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Arron says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>7.5</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><p class="MsoNormal">It seems as though history repeated itself on Sunday, as Alexis Sánchez was once again Barcelona’s best attacking threat up until the introduction of Neymar. His hard-work and close control enabled Alexis to both regain possession, and draw free-kicks from the Malaga defense, who were lucky to finish with eleven players on the field. Technically, we have to credit Alexis with an assist for Adriano’s goal, although the clear highlight for the Chilean was his close-range header, which was well saved by Willy Caballero.</p></div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><span>Cesc Fabregas</span></td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>7.6</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>90</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>75</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>56</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>77%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>4/2</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>3</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>3</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Arron says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>7.0</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <div align="justify"><p class="MsoNormal">This was a much better performance from Cesc Fàbregas, who clearly needed a game to really get into the groove of playing as Barça’s false nine again. Creatively speaking, Fàbregas was one of our best players (even if the statistics do not reflect that) as it was his cushioned header that nearly provided Alexis with a goal, and it was his slide-rule pass that could have gifted Pedro an opener – if only the #7 could have displayed a better first touch.</p></div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Pedro</td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>5.2</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>63</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>41</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>35</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>94%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0/0</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Arron says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>6.0</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><p class="MsoNormal">A brace in the opening game of the season, and virtually nothing since. Who would have thought that the first three games of the season could sum up Pedro’s career so well? He works hard and provides glimpses of excellence (his run for that chance, ably claimed by Caballero and another intelligent run after a great reverse pass to Alba) but these glimpses didn’t amount to anything – and again, Neymar displayed a lot more, in a whole lot less time.</p></div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Dani Alves</td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>5.8</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>45</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>35</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>18</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>78%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1/1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Key Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>0</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Clearances: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>4</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Jordan says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>6.5</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><p class="MsoNormal">Subbed on for the injured Adriano, Alves put in a standard performance with exactly one foul, one dribble won, and one shot...thing. Alves did make a good acrobatic clearance, but overall there’s very little to say on him. Another performance from the Brazilian who started a rare match on the bench.</p></div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Neymar</td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>7.2</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>27</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>21</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>13</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>77%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Successful Dribbles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>2</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Fouls Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>3</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>3/1</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Turnovers: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>1</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Arron says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>7.5</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <p class="MsoNormal">It’s ironic that so many were slightly opposed to the deal – both towards the player and the amount paid for his services – yet just three games into the season, those same people are already "converted". They’ve seen the light – even in small cameo appearances, Neymar has been dazzling the crowds and Barça fans watching all across the world – and relative to his minutes played, he’s arguably the most-fouled player in La Liga too.</p> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><span>Sergi Roberto</span></td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>5.9</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Minutes played: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>7</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Touches: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>6</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>5</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>100%</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Arron says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>N/A</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <p class="MsoNormal">Sergi Roberto played less than ten minutes and barely saw a touch of the ball; it would hardly be fair to give him a full rating.</p> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">The Team</td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>6.3</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Passes: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>702</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Pass Accuracy: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>90%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Shots/Shots on Target: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>15/11</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Tackles: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>20</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Aerial Battles Won: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>31%</strong></span> </div> <div class="dots"> <span class="statwords">Fouls Won/Committed: </span><span class="statwords"><strong>14/12</strong></span> </div> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Arron says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>7.5</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><p class="MsoNormal">At the end of the day, Barcelona did enough to secure the three points and that’s all that matters. These three points are worth exactly the same as the three points earned in that sensational 7-0 win over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/levante">Levante</a>, and ensure that Barça keep their place at the top of La Liga. The defending wasn’t excellent, but Valdés’ goalkeeping was; the midfield wasn’t overly creative, but they were at least effective and well, at least there’s room for (Brazillian?) improvement in the front-line. Sometimes, you just have to grind out a win.</p></div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;"><span>Gerardo Martino</span></td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>6.2</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div class="statcont"> <br><div class="dots"> <span class="statwords"><em><strong>Arron says: </strong></em></span><span class="statwords"><strong><em>7.0</em></strong></span> </div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><p class="MsoNormal">Martino has been criticised for his team selection – and yes, the reasoning behind this criticism is relatively sound. Xavi could perhaps do with a rest (five key passes argues otherwise) and maybe starting Fàbregas at false nine isn’t the best move – but what does it matter? Barcelona got the win, and that’s all that really counts.</p></div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
<table style="text-align: justify; width: 100%; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: black;"><tbody> <tr style="height: 50px;"> <td style="vertical-align: middle; font-size: 24px; border-bottom: 1px solid black;">MOTM - Valdes</td> <td style="width: 50px; height: 50px; vertical-align: middle; font-size: 30px; text-align: center; color: white; background-color: #a2214b;"><em>34%</em></td> </tr> <tr><td colspan="2" style="font-size: 12px; vertical-align: top;"> <div style="font-size: 12px;" class="statcont"> <br><div class="dots"><span class="statwords"><em><strong>Arron says: Adriano</strong></em></span></div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><p style="font-size: 12px;" class="MsoNormal">With over a third of the vote, Victor Valdes claimed his first Man of the Match Award of the season, ahead of both the goal-scorer Adriano (25%) and Cesc Fabregas (23%).</p></div> </td></tr> </tbody></table>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/26/4659104/la-liga-malaga-cf-0-1-fc-barcelona-player-ratingsJBeck122013-08-26T10:29:09+02:002013-08-26T10:29:09+02:00La Liga: Barcelona 1-0 Malaga: Highlights
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SjrMb7Fj4fB_i9XHvf2zAZf8EN0=/0x196:4000x2863/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18432213/177654911.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Denis Doyle</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A chance to relive Barcelona's 1-0 La Liga win over Malaga at La Rosaleda</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">According to the scoreline, all it took for FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> to defeat Malaga was a 44th minute goal from Brazilian full-back <span>Adriano Correia</span>, although anyone who watched the match will know that the scoreline doesn't tell the whole story. Rather than coasting to victory off the back of Adriano's <em>golazo</em>, Barcelona were forced to work extremely hard for their three points -- which is far from ideal given the hectic and testing schedule ahead for Gerardo Martino's Blaugrana. In the absence of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, Barcelona were almost toothless in attack for the first-half, although thankfully, Adriano's goal and the half-time break gave the Barca frontline a little more confidence, and they would have added to their lead if not for Malaga goalkeeper Willy Caballero.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Neymar provided us with another impressive cameo off the bench and <span>Sergi Roberto</span> at least didn't look out of place in the midfield during his brief substitute appearance.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The 1-0 win ensures that Barcelona will keep their place at the top of the La Liga table (provided <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> do not win by seven goals against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/granada">Granada</a> tonight), and extended the Blaugrana's unbeaten run to eight games (including a run of seven consecutive wins in league action). With just one goal conceded in their opening three matches, Barcelona boast one of the best defenses in Europe (statistically speaking anyway) and that record is only likely to improve once <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110856/carles-puyol">Carles Puyol</a> returns from injury.</p>
<h4>More from Barca Blaugranes:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/26/4657836/fc-barcelona-news-25-august-2013-barca-defeat-malaga-atleti-coast-to?utm_source=barcablaugranes&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">FC Barcelona News: 25 August 2013: Barca Defeat Malaga, Atleti Coast To Win Over Rayo</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/25/4657788/la-liga-malaga-cf-0-1-fc-barcelona-match-review?utm_source=barcablaugranes&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">La Liga: Malaga CF 0-1 FC Barcelona: Match Review</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/25/4656816/barcelona-vs-malaga-the-importance-of-resting-lionel-messi?utm_source=barcablaugranes&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Barcelona vs. Malaga - The Importance of Resting Lionel Messi</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/24/4653518/fc-barcelona-news-24-august-2013-dani-alves-talks-to-press?utm_source=barcablaugranes&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">FC Barcelona News: 24 August 2013: Dani Alves Talks To Press, Bale Urged To Join Real Madrid</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/23/4649162/atletico-1-barca-1?utm_source=barcablaugranes&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Atlético 1 - Barça 1: A Lesson in Tactics</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/26/4659082/la-liga-fc-barcelona-1-0-malaga-cf-highlightsArron Duckling2013-08-25T22:51:24+02:002013-08-25T22:51:24+02:00La Liga: Barcelona 1-0 Malaga: Match Review
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/p8g2PM6d3FaFsQtMcwEZeSUZYss=/0x318:3065x2361/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18414821/177646017.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Denis Doyle</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A recap of Barcelona's 1-0 win over Malaga CF as a goal from Adriano was enough to secure the three points for the Blaugrana at La Rosaleda</p> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> were far from their best on Sunday night, but still had enough to see off the threat of Malaga CF at La Rosaleda, as Adriano Correia’s 44<sup>th</sup> minute goal secured a 1-0 win for the Blaugrana. Malaga had their chances – hitting the post through Fabrice Olinga in the second-half, as well as forcing a couple of late saves from Victor Valdés, but ultimately Bernd Schuster’s side just didn’t do enough to secure a share of the spoils.</p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Malaga</b></p>
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</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Barcelona</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Possession</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>26%</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>74%</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Total Shots</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>9</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>14</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Shots on Target</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>3</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>11</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Pass Accuracy</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>68%</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>90%</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Fouls</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>14</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>12</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Offsides</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>1</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>2</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Yellow Cards</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>3</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>2</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 154.0pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>Red Cards</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>0</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
<td style="width: 154.05pt; padding: 0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;" valign="top" width="205">
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;" class="MsoNormal"><b>0</b></p>
<p></p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p>
<p></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">With <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> sidelined through injury, <span>Gerardo Martino</span> opted to move in-form midfielder Cesc Fàbregas into the centre of attack, and this was just one of three changes compared to the team that started against Atletico Madrid at the Vicente Calderon in midweek. In defense, Adriano replaced <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves">Dani Alves</a> at right-back while <span>Alex Song</span> took Sergio Busquets’ place at pivote, meaning a third successive start for temporary Barça captain Xavi Hernández. Would Martino’s gambles pay off? Would Barcelona retain leadership of La Liga at the end of Jornada Two?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">From the starting whistle, Bernd Schuster’s game-plan was obvious; get plenty of men behind the ball, pack the midfield and attack down either flank on the counter-attack – which, for the most part, was a solid philosophy. It’s not like Malaga could afford to go toe-to-toe with the Blaugrana and expect to claim anything from the match; this was their best chance at securing a point (or three) and early on, this very approach appeared to be paying dividends. A sloppy start from Barcelona enabled Malaga to escape an early spell of pressure, while the pace of young Fabrice Olinga down the left-flank helped them create some panic in the Barça defense. Speeding away from Adriano, the Cameroonian tried to play a cross into the danger zone, only for Victor Valdés to commandingly pluck the ball out of mid-air.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona might not be the best defensive team on the planet, or even in La Liga, but it was certainly going to take more than a simple cross to trouble Valdés.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Equally, it was going to take a lot more than just possession to break down this disciplined Malaga defense; in the absence of Lionel Messi, Barcelona were somewhat devoid of creativity in the final third – of the 11 starters, only Cesc Fàbregas seemed capable of delivering that "killer" pass. Just like last weekend, Fàbregas’ fingerprints were over anything and everything positive about Barcelona’s performance. It was his header that forced a save from Willy Caballero in the 18<sup>th</sup> minute, and it was his pass just moments later that nearly created the first goal of the evening.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Taking advantage of an excellent decision from Antonio Mateu Lahoz, Barcelona capitalised on a momentary lapse in concentration from the Malaga defense to thread the ball through to Pedro, but the Spaniard’s first touch deserted him allowing Caballero to pounce on the loose ball. Surely Barça’s best play of the evening so far, and Caballero was still waiting to make a memorable save.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Yet at the other end, Valdés was soon called into action. Barcelona were creating very little from open play and were now struggling to regain possession from the opposition; first Alex Song brought down <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110632/roque-santa-cruz">Roque Santa Cruz</a> inside the Malaga half, and soon after <span>Jordi Alba</span> went in late and made minimal contact with Bartlomiej Pawloski. It was another needless foul to giveaway, and this time Malaga were in a position to create a chance. What appeared to be an excellent position for a cross lent itself well to Vitorino Antune’s curling left-footed shot, forcing Victor Valdés to scramble across goal and make a good save to keep the score at 0-0.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Another period of relatively wasteful (sterile?) Barcelona possession followed, before finally, with a little under ten minutes left to play in the opening period, Barça finally pushed it up a gear. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110863/andres-iniesta">Andrés Iniesta</a>’s intelligent diagonal cross found Cesc Fàbregas (onside) at the far post) and ever the facilitator, Fàbregas cushioned a header towards the penalty spot and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110173/alexis-sanchez">Alexis Sánchez</a>. The Chilean threw himself goalwards to try and bury the chance, and for what it’s worth, he made good contact with the ball – not that it would matter. Willy Caballero had spotted the danger and raced from his line to deny Sánchez his second goal of the season.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">It should have been enough to see Malaga enter the half-time break level with the Champions, but Adriano had other ideas. In trademark fashion, he Brazilian truly created something out of nothing, picking up a harmless pass from Alexis Sánchez, Adriano cut inside from his position on the right-flank and went for goal – bending a low left-footed shot past Caballero at his far post. The Argentine shot-stopper could and maybe should have done a little better – not that we could complain. Out of thin air, Adriano had gifted us a one goal lead heading into the break.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">However that would be his last action, as Martino replaced Barça’s goal-scorer with regular right-back Dani Alves, in what Culés hoped was a change designed to rest Adriano for Wednesday’s Supercopa de España second-leg against Atletico Madrid. Unfortunately, news soon emerged that Adriano was subbed as a precaution with thigh muscle "discomfort". Depending on the severity of the discomfort, Adriano may well miss Wednesday’s match with Atleti, and maybe even next week’s clash with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/valencia">Valencia</a> – or no games at all. It all depends on the results of any tests conducted in the next 24 hours or so.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Barcelona started the second-half relatively threateningly. Maybe Barça weren’t creating many clear-cut chances, but they were at least registering a few shots on target – a free-kick from Xavi and a header from Cesc Fàbregas didn’t cause Willy any real problems in the Malaga goal, although they did boost our totals. Another header, this time from Gerard Piqué following an in-swinging Xavi free-kick forced a better save from Caballero in the 58<sup>th</sup> minute, but still Barça couldn’t extend their lead.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Enter Neymar.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">For the second time this week, Neymar replaced Pedro with roughly half-an-hour left to play as Martino looked to wrap up the three points. Meanwhile, Bernd Schuster was hoping to grab an unlikely equaliser, withdrawing one of his rare "attacking" players Bartlomiej Pawloski, in order to bring on different attacking option in Portuguese winger Eliseu. Would either substitute have an impact on the final score?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Eliseu very nearly created an equaliser for the hosts, racing away on the counter-attack, the Portuguese winger picked out the run of Roque Santa Cruz, who somehow rounded the challenge of Victor Valdés and tried to pick out Fabrice Olinga with a cut-back – and to his credit, the Paraguayan striker did just that, only for the inexperienced striker to hit the post with his shot at an open goal. It was a real let-off for the Blaugrana, who desperately needed a second goal to secure the three points.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Yet even after the introduction of Neymar, Barcelona were still looking devoid of ideas in attack – and as a result, Malaga were growing in confidence. Schuster withdrew one of his three holding midfielders Ignacio Camacho for an attacking threat, Seba Fernandez while Fabrice Olinga was also taken off for Chilean international <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110165/pedro-morales">Pedro Morales</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">But after a quiet 15-20 minutes, Neymar was ready to make his mark on the game; dribbling right through at the heart of the Malaga defense, the talented Brazilian was wiped out by Sergio Sánchez (who had been booked earlier in the match) – only for Mateu Lahoz to spare him a second, and therefore a red. Not one to complain, Neymar got up, brushed it off and struck the free-kick with real venom – similar to his strike against Italy in the Confederations Cup, only this time the goalkeeper got across to make the save.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Time was winding down at La Rosaleda, and Barcelona were still hanging on to their slender one goal lead. <span>Sergi Roberto</span> had entered the action by this point, earning himself a seven-minute cameo in place of Andrés Iniesta, as Barça looked to play down the clock. Seldom is it ever that easy – Malaga were always going to create another chance – it’s just how football tends to work, and Valdés had to be at his best to deny Seba Fernandez’s header from point-blank range.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Next up, Barcelona take on Atletico Madrid in the return-leg of the Supercopa de España, with the tie evenly poised at 1-1 after an evenly-matched first-leg at the Vicente Calderon. Until then, Visca el Barça!</p>
<iframe src="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/embeddedform?formkey=dEdjY0tVZ1FGZElna05IZENSWnlRc0E6MA" width="760" height="500" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0">Loading...</iframe>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/25/4657788/la-liga-malaga-cf-0-1-fc-barcelona-match-reviewArron Duckling2013-08-25T19:59:43+02:002013-08-25T19:59:43+02:00FC Barcelona vs Malaga CF: Live Game Thread
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cevvVGirdHl9S0E7P_ZzcouAQCY=/0x435:2861x2342/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18407627/176755049.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Ramos</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Live game thread for FC Barcelona's La Liga match-up with Malaga </p> <div class="m-entry__body">
<div style="text-align: center;" align="center">La Liga: Jornada 2<br>Kickoff: Sunday, 25 August 2013; 21:00 CET<br>La Rosaleda, Malaga<br>Referee: Antonio Mateu Lahoz</div>
<p>Line-ups:</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> (4-3-3): Victor Valdes; <span>Adriano Correia</span>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110855/gerard-pique">Gerard Pique</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110053/javier-mascherano">Javier Mascherano</a>, <span>Jordi Alba</span>; <span>Alex Song</span>, Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta; Alexis Sanchez, <span>Cesc Fabregas</span>, Pedro Rodriguez</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Substitutes: Jose Manuel Pinto, <span>Sergi Roberto</span>, <span>Marc Bartra</span>, <span>Sergio Busquets</span>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves">Dani Alves</a>, Neymar, <span>Cristian Tello</span></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Malaga CF (4-3-2-1): Willy Caballero; Jesus Gamez, Sergio Sanchez, Marcos Angeleri, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110637/vitorino-antunes">Vitorino Antunes</a>; <span>Fernando Tissone</span>, Sergi Darder, Ignacio Camacho; Bartlomiej Pawlowski, Fabrice Olinga; <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110632/roque-santa-cruz">Roque Santa Cruz</a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Substitutes: TBA</p>
</div>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/25/4657198/la-liga-malaga-cf-vs-fc-barcelona-live-game-threadArron Duckling2013-08-25T18:01:39+02:002013-08-25T18:01:39+02:00The Importance of Resting Messi
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ERvKBiJOWzpeLAP_6y3gNyudKs8=/3x0:3996x2662/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18402811/176755066.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Ramos</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Barcelona did not even call up Leo Messi for the Malaga clash today after he left the Spanish Supercup game against Atletico Madrid with an injury. The Argentine superstar has endured a string of niggling injuries lately after not missing many minutes, for any reason, for at least two seasons prior.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">I sense a disturbance in the Force.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Never mind, it's just that <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> is injured, not playing, and something is not quite right in the football world when that's the case.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> limped to a 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid in the Supercup first leg on Wednesday with Messi missing half the game due to a muscular injury. Neymar would save the match by scoring the equalizer, but there were very few positives otherwise.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It's not been a full week and Barcelona have another difficult match, this time away to Malaga. Messi is not even in the match squad, which, given the circumstances, is a good thing.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Before his injury in the Champions League first leg against Paris Saint-Germain, Messi had played 88% of the possible minutes he could have with Barcelona. Since, he's played 29%. Of the past 27 matches he played with Barca or the Argentine national team, Messi has only completed one. And he's set to miss one more.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Those are shocking statistics for a player that seemed to have more endurance than Wolverine in the past few years. It recalls his early years in the first team, where he played only in fits and starts as he suffered a series of various injuries.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In the <span>Pep Guardiola</span> years, he became close to Juanjo Brau, a physio credited with Messi's progression from injury-prone to bionic. Brau monitored Messi's life, improving every part of his routine to ensure maximum fitness. <a href="http://www.goal.com/en/news/1717/editorial/2012/10/23/3468661/how-messi-went-from-injury-prone-teenager-to-bionic-man" target="_blank">Read this article by Ben Hayward for more details</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Messi still follows the diet and training regimen from those days, but the results have not been the same lately. Coach Tata Martino blamed only "bad luck", saying there was nothing to be worried about. The injuries could - <i>could </i>- be a series of random events that do not point to a larger fitness problem.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">But the Barcelona faithful are jittery because the team has looked like a shadow of itself without Messi firing on all cylinders. Not only that, but all Argentines must feel nerves thinking Messi may not be fully fit for the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/world-cup-2014">World Cup</a> this year - which would be something not unlike a national catastrophe.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Maybe it's not bad luck but his body cashing the checks of match after match without injury. Last year, Messi logged 4,096 minutes for Barcelona, most in the squad. It's easy to blame <span>Tito Vilanova</span> - who was criticized for not rotating enough - but the year before, Messi was on the pitch for an astounding 5,042 minutes under Guardiola.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The year before? 4,675. Even in the 2009-10 season, Messi still played 3,636 minutes - and none of this is counting his frequent national team duties.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/">Real Madrid</a> managers are wary of playing even one match without their top guns. A "slip" of drawing away to a very good team such as <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/sevilla">Sevilla</a> or <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/real-sociedad">Real Sociedad</a> could mean the difference between a league crown and second place.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Therefore Martino has to make the tough choice and sit Messi when he's not fully healed. So far, he's done that - again Messi won't even be on the bench for the Malaga game today.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Messi is working extra hard to be available for the Supercup return leg in midweek. If he is fit, that's a good thing. But there is no need to push him to play if he's not fully ready. The Supercup is relatively inconsequential. The health of the world's greatest player is not.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">By all accounts, Messi wants to play every single second - even if it's half fit or hobbling. It's desirable that a player has that competitive spirit. But at some point, someone must save him from himself.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Martino has to show, once again, <a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/20/4638504/tata-martino-barcelona-lionel-messi-levante">who the boss really is</a>.</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/25/4656816/barcelona-vs-malaga-the-importance-of-resting-lionel-messiLuis Mazariegos2013-08-25T10:30:28+02:002013-08-25T10:30:28+02:00Predict the Score: Barcelona vs Malaga
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Wte5chdRJhgOGVvjUVVPn0ertqw=/0x235:3285x2425/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18391837/177175762.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Denis Doyle</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A chance to predict the score of tonight's La Liga clash between FC Barcelona and Malaga CF</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">FC <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/">Barcelona</a> will be looking to become the third (or fourth, depending on the result in the evening's earlier match between Atletico Madrid and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/rayo-vallecano">Rayo Vallecano</a>) side to claim six points from their opening two matches, as both <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://athletic.theoffside.com/">Athletic Bilbao</a> and newly-promoted <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.villarrealusa.com/">Villarreal</a> secured their second wins of the campaign earlier in the weekend. Athletic Bilbao are hoping to challenge for a UEFA Champions League qualification place under the guidance of new coach Ernesto Valverde -- and they looked impressive on Friday night at the Anoeta against a wasteful <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/osasuna">Osasuna</a> performance. Villarreal on the other hand were simply hoping for survival, even if they have invested rather heavily (by La Liga standards) in their playing squad following promotion. But after two matches, perhaps they have designs on something more -- with a second comeback victory in two games, this time against Real <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/valladolid">Valladolid</a>, it's safe to say that confidence will be high at El Madrigal.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Thanks to their landslide win over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/levante">Levante</a> in Jornada One, Barcelona should regain their place at the top of the table with any victory tonight -- and are expected to cruise to victory against a much-changed Malaga outfit. Even in the absence of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a>, Barcelona have talent in abundance: Neymar, <span>Cesc Fabregas</span>, Xavi, Andres Iniesta -- the list goes on and on; just how can Bernd Schuster compete with the Blaugrana?</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Chances are that he cannot -- at least not without a tactical rethink. 10 men behind the ball with an emphasis on counter-attacks; it's probably the only way that Malaga can grab something from this match. But will it be enough? Will Bernd Schuster come back to haunt Barcelona once again, or will <span>Gerardo Martino</span> secure revenge on Frank Rijkaard's behalf by guiding Barca to heavy win at La Rosaleda? Predict the score of tonight's match by leaving a comment below. Best of luck!</p>
<h4>More from Barca Blaugranes:</h4>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/24/4654660/la-liga-malaga-cf-vs-fc-barcelona-match-preview?utm_source=barcablaugranes&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">La Liga: Malaga CF vs FC Barcelona: Match Preview</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/24/4653518/fc-barcelona-news-24-august-2013-dani-alves-talks-to-press?utm_source=barcablaugranes&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">FC Barcelona News: 24 August 2013: Dani Alves Talks To Press, Bale Urged To Join Real Madrid</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/23/4649162/atletico-1-barca-1?utm_source=barcablaugranes&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Atlético 1 - Barça 1: A Lesson in Tactics</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/23/4650426/fc-barcelona-news-23-august-2013-barca-sign-denis-suarez-lionel-messi?utm_source=barcablaugranes&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">FC Barcelona News: 23 August 2013: Barca Sign Denis Suarez, Lionel Messi Doubtful For Malaga Match</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.barcablaugranes.com/fc-barcelona-transfer-rumours-news/2013/8/22/4647928/report-marc-andre-ter-stegen-edges-closer-to-fc-barcelona-move?utm_source=barcablaugranes&utm_medium=nextclicks&utm_campaign=blogs">Report: Marc-Andre Ter Stegen Edges Closer To FC Barcelona Move</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/25/4656182/la-liga-fc-barcelona-vs-malaga-cf-predict-the-scoreArron Duckling2013-08-24T20:51:26+02:002013-08-24T20:51:26+02:00La Liga: Barcelona vs Malaga: Match Preview
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/7Lebh4UnipqLJZsk-i8fBXw8pnY=/0x137:2587x1862/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/18368675/176717351.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Manuel Queimadelos Alonso</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A preview of Barcelona's second La Liga match of the season: a trip to La Rosaleda where they will square off against Malaga</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">FC <a href="https://www.barcablaugranes.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Barcelona</a> travel away for the first time this La Liga season tomorrow, as they prepare to take on last season’s UEFA Champions League quarter-finalists Malaga at La Rosaleda. After a historic fourth-place finish in 2011-12, Malaga shocked the world with their eventual run to the UEFA Champions League last eight, and were just a few seconds away from a place in the final four – but it’s been all down-hill since then for <i>Los Boquerones.</i></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Influential head coach Manuel Pellegrini has left for pastures new at Manchester City, while three of the club’s top-four goal-scorers from last season have followed him out the door at La Rosaleda; Isco now plies his trade for <a href="https://www.managingmadrid.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Real Madrid</a>, Joaquin joined Fiorentina while former-Barcelona star Javier Saviola opted for a move to Greece, and Olympiakos. Once you factor in the loss of star central defender <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110049/martin-demichelis" class="sbn-auto-link">Martin Demichelis</a>, it’s easy to see why Malaga have been tipped for mid-table mediocrity.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">An opening night defeat to a relatively toothless <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/la-liga/teams/valencia" class="sbn-auto-link">Valencia</a> outfit would have hardly pleased new coach Bernd Schuster, who admitted that his club will have to take extreme (defensive) measures to try and salvage a point from tomorrow’s clash with Gerardo Martino’s Barcelona. Even without <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110061/lionel-messi" class="sbn-auto-link">Lionel Messi</a>, the Blaugrana are still expected to cruise to a victory at La Rosaleda, particularly after Neymar scored his first goal for the side on Wednesday, in a 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">His powerful header might make all the difference in a few days time when the two clubs meet again – and even if it doesn’t, it likely demonstrates that Neymar is finally ready to start for his new team. However, with that important second-leg looming it’s worth asking whether Barcelona need to start the Brazilian tomorrow in order to maintain their 100% start to the La Liga season...</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>TEAM NEWS</b></p>
<p><b><br></b></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>BARCELONA</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Lionel Messi misses out through injury, but Barcelona are able to welcome Adriano back into the fold, after the Brazilian full-back served a one-game suspension in the first leg of the Supercopa de España. Consequently, <span>Martin Montoya</span> has been cut from Martino’s 19-man squad – leaving room for <span>Sergi Roberto</span> to travel with the squad for the first time this season. The Catalan midfielder was one of Barça’s most impressive players throughout pre-season, and will be keen to make an impact if he’s given a chance to make his season debut tomorrow evening.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Victor Valdés will start in goal looking to extend his recent run of good form, which has seen the Catalan shot-stopper keep three clean sheets in his last four competitive appearances for club and country. Notching his fourth in five would be some achievement for Valdés given the recent record of the Barcelona defense, and give him some crucial confidence ahead of that pivotal Supercopa second-leg on Wednesday at the Camp Nou.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">After starting the first two matches of the season, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110098/dani-alves" class="sbn-auto-link">Dani Alves</a> could be in line for a rest tomorrow and in the absence of Martin Montoya, that would mean a second successive La Liga start for Adriano – who could then move himself into contention for a starting berth (most probably at left-back) against Atletico Madrid with a solid performance at La Rosaleda. Unfortunately, Barcelona’s lack of depth means that Martino is unlikely to tinker with the centre of defense, and it’s likely that he will grant Alba his first La Liga start of the season, meaning that minimal change from Wednesday’s draw is highly likely.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Lionel Messi’s injury is likely to force Cesc Fàbregas into a more offensive role, allowing <span>Sergio Busquets</span>, Xavi and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110863/andres-iniesta" class="sbn-auto-link">Andrés Iniesta</a> to start together in midfield once again – but Martino could equally make a couple of changes, bringing <span>Alex Song</span> and Sergi Roberto into the starting line-up ahead of Busquets and Xavi respectively. The choice is all his, and depends on both the fitness of his usual starters and his confidence in the "fringe" players. Does Martino truly believe that they are good enough to help secure a win against Bernd Schuster’s Malaga?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">As mentioned earlier, Cesc Fàbregas is expected to slot into the front-three as Barcelona’s latest false nine, and many anticipate that he will be joined in attack by Pedro and Neymar. Or Neymar and Alexis Sánchez. Or any possible combination that includes Neymar. Personally, I wouldn’t mind seeing Neymar "saved" for Wednesday, but I could hardly say no to seeing the Brazilian make his first start for the club.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>MALAGA</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Malaga will be without last season’s starting central defender (and captain) Weligton, who is recovering from surgery at his home in Malaga, while new signing Flavio (also a central defender) is also sidelined through injury. However, there is some good news as <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110124/carlos-kameni" class="sbn-auto-link">Carlos Kameni</a> and Eliseu have both rejoined training after missing sessions earlier in the week with slight problems.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Not that it really matters, as Willy Caballero is still expected to start in goal, while Duda could retain his place after starting in the 1-0 defeat against Valencia. It’ll be interesting to see whether Schuster continues to rely upon a mixture of youth and experience against the Blaugrana – as talented as Fabrice Olinga may be for instance, it seems unlikely that he will start tomorrow, particularly following Schuster’s pre-match comments which suggested a more "defensive" approach.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>FORM GUIDE</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona: DWWWWD</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Malaga: WLWWLL</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>LAST MEETING</b></p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">FC Barcelona 4-1 Malaga CF – 1<sup>st</sup> June 2013 – La Liga</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">It was less than three months ago that Barcelona wrapped up their La Liga campaign in style with an emphatic 4-1 win against Malaga, as goals from <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/fifa/players/110874/david-villa" class="sbn-auto-link">David Villa</a>, Cesc Fàbregas, Martin Montoya and Andrés Iniesta helped the Blaugrana reach the 100-point milestone for the first time in their history.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>LIKELY LINE-UPS</b></p>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona (4-3-3): Valdés; Adriano, Piqué, Mascherano, Alba; Busquets, Xavi, Iniesta; Pedro, Fàbregas, Neymar</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Malaga (4-2-3-1): Caballero; Gamez, Chen, Angeleri, Antunes; Camacho, Tissone; Morales, Portillo, Eliseu; Santa Cruz</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b>MATCH PREDICTION</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Even in the absence of their star player, Barcelona should have more than enough to escape La Rosaleda with all three points – I’m going for a hard-fought 2-0 win.</p>
https://www.barcablaugranes.com/2013/8/24/4654660/la-liga-malaga-cf-vs-fc-barcelona-match-previewArron Duckling