Even San Mamés validated the 0-1 to which Barça has subscribed. The blaugrana will arrive at the derby with a nine-point advantage after adding their ninth league victory by 1-0 or 0-1, it doesn’t matter, against an unlucky and unfortunate Athletic. In the absence of football, two VAR plays were counted that certified Barça’s victory: one validated Raphinha’s goal and the other annulled Iñaki Williams somewhat against the harshness of San Mamés.
Xavi’s plan is better than Valverde’s. Absent Araujo, Sergi Roberto played and not Marcos Alonso; He got Lewandowski back, Ferran was kept and he didn’t enter a quarter-half like Kessié. To every doubt, Xavi responded with an offensive movement that allowed Koundé to keep the position of center back and not the right-back to which he has been displaced when Araujo was missing. Barça accepted an open match on a grandiose stage against a brave rival, loaded with forwards, without the sanctioned Sancet and with Raúl García. Valverde read Xavi’s lineup and changed bands to Nico Williams to face Sergi Roberto.
Ramón Besa tells you. You can read the full match report at this link.
