Xavi celebrating after scoring from a fantastic free kick
The previous match of FC Barcelona against Sevilla was 0-0 draw, so the tension before the match against Granada was little bit higher than usual, and the hosts proved their skill, beaten only by the smallest margin 1-0 by the best club in the world, FC Barcelona.
Right from the starting minute FC Barcelona tried to play their natural attacking and passing game, but the defenders of Granada seemed to be the great wall of China for them. Even the Argentine wizard Lionel Messi was unable to dribble like he does always to mesmerize even the opposite side. To be honest, it was a rare off day for the Argentine. But, FC Barcelona is a versatile team which create all types of chances always to score against their opponent, and when the game reached the half hour mark Xavi Hernandez, recently voted best player of the season by the Barca fans was fouled on the edge of the box, and he took the responsibility to take the free kick instead of regular Lionel Messi, and he scored the solo goal with a fantastic free kick. FC Barcelona then felt little bit pressure less, but they continued their non stop mission to attack Granada .Unfortunately, they had to go to the dressing room during the half time with a only 1-0 lead.
Barca midfielder Xavi took excellent free kick
Barca midfielder Xavi took excellent free kick
When the game resumed after the half time it was all about FC Barcelona attack and the protest of Granada once again.in fact, it was an action replay of the first half. On the 57th minute David Villa started late due to injured Pedro, missed an easy chance to score and it was so unfortunate for Lionel Messi that on the 58th minute he did escape from the goal keeper but the ball was cleared before touching the goal line! Isaac Cuenca, the debutant also missed an ideal chance to score on the 70th minute. With a hope to score at least once more Guardiola gave a chance to Febragas and took off Iniesta, but he could not bring any special effect as well. Granada was so solid to break once more time.Unfortunately, Granada had to finish with only 9 men because of 2 red cards of Jaime and Benitez, though one of them was really unfortunate and got furious too.
FC Barcelona got the full vital 3 points they needed to top the table at least for 24 hours, but it was not an impressive performance by the Catalan.Fans must be frustrated to see their performance.On the other hand, it was an epic display of resistance from Granada.They will remember their performance for a long time, though it was a defeat, and will be trying to repeat it over and over again to improve their position in the point table.
In the Post match interview Guardiola says, " We lacked fluidity"
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