Liga: FC Barcelona relies on Vitor Roque to beat Osasuna

The first day of the rest of his life, without Xavi. 4 days after the surprise announcement of the departure of its coach at the end of the season, after a heavy defeat at home against Villarreal (5-3), FC Barcelona returned to competition. Relegated to 4th place before the kick-off of this 20th day of La Liga, the Catalan club is now under pressure from Athletic, two small points behind. To make matters worse, there are many injured people like ter Stegen, Alonso, Baldé, Gavi, João Felix, Inigo, Raphinha and Sergi Roberto. The young Pau Cubarsí played his third match in central defense, while Yamal and Torres took their place in support of Lewandowski.

It is well known that a problem never happens alone. Xavi found himself thwarted in his starting line-up with Ferran Torres’ muscle injury after just six minutes of play. The Culés did not seem so destabilized by the premature exit, and in tears, of the former Cityzen. On the other hand, Osasuna’s plan was clear: not to give in and wait for counter solutions. The incoming Fermin did good, like this breakthrough into the surface (23rd) and this hot situation (27th). The young winger also came up against Aitor at a tight angle (38th), while Koundé’s header just before (35th) finished above the goal.

Vitor Roque’s first goal comes at just the right time

It still lacked a boost and creativity to make a difference. The Rojillos didn’t have much either, especially on this ill-inspired header from Budimir, alone facing the empty goal (39th). Upon returning from the locker room, the pace and desire displayed by the Barcelonans even became lethargic. A soothing game only awakened by the rare blows from Fermin, who nevertheless paid off for everyone. Entering at the start of the match, he gave way in the 62nd minute to Vitor Roque, the new signing of this transfer window. A frankly astonishing choice, but above all profitable.

On his first ball, a cross from outside Joan Cancelo, the young Brazilian crossed his head at the near post to free his team (1-0, 63rd). The hardest part was done for the Blaugranas, especially as Unai Garcia left his partners numerically inferior for a second warning (67th). In the process, Vitor Roque would undoubtedly have deserved a penalty for this collision (71st). But Raul Garcia’s shot close to the post (76th) then Inaki Pena’s flight past Moncayola (77th) reminded Barça that the match was not yet won. The rest was more management to ensure three welcome points in the ranking and especially 3rd place.