1-4: PUNISHED IN THE SECOND HALF

Despite facing up to the challenge for the first 45 minutes on Sunday night in Nervión against Barcelona we couldn't come away with anything. Level at the break after a courageous first-half performance, just one minute after the restart Fermín's scored for the away side to restore their lead. A penalty claim on Sow was then turned down and Raphina soon added a third. Fermín would see red for a dangerous challenge on Sow but it proved to be a mere footnote on the night as despite playing for more than half an hour with an extra man, we couldn't take advantage and in the end, it was Barcelona who made it four with a late goal from Eric García.

In an intense first half, it was clear what the game plan was, Aware of Barcelona's dominance in terms of possession, we adopted a counterattacking style looking to hit the away side with pace on the break. However, with just seven minutes on the clock, Lewandoski headed home from a corner to give Barcelona an early lead. The response was swift though as Lukebakio played the ball inside to Saul, who crossed for Vargas at the far post. The Swiss did not miss in front of Szczesny and brought the score back to level just a minute later.

Although we equalised virtually straight away in the second half things became difficult 

It was time to keep the team together and resist the onslaught of Flick's team to try to surprise again. Isaac had a chance, who did not make good contact with a cross from Pedrosa. The only really dangerous one was a shot by Koundé, after a back-heel from the all-action Lamine, which the defender shot over. Lukebakio then had a bicycle kick which was kept out by a great save. The second half got off to a worse start. With just a minute played, a ball into the box from Pedri was met by the head of Fermín to make it 2-1. Shortly after, Vargas scored again, although this time it was disallowed for offside. To make matters worse, Raphinha then made it 3-1 with a shot from close range. 

It seemed decisive but Fermín after a bad tackle on Sow was sent off with more than half an hour to play. Against the ten men of Barcelona, there was no way through however as García Pimienta tried to inspire the comeback by bringing on Ejuke and Suso. With minutes to play Erica García put the final nail in the coffin as he made it 4-1. Next up is a visit to Zorilla with Carmona returning but Badé and Saúl unavailable due to suspension.