Memphis Depay scored an important winner as FC Barcelona edged Getafe 2-1 at Camp Nou on Sunday afternoon.
Barcelona continued their excellent home record against Getafe by securing a nervy 2-1 victory at Nou Camp on Sunday. The win helps them maintain early pressure on rivals Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, as they head into the international break.
It was a not a polished performance from Ronald Koeman’s men by any means, despite a very early goal from Sergi Roberto. Neither side were able to dominate the game, with Getafe being given a considerable chunk of possession to try and test the opposition backline. It led to Barcelona defence being forced to overwork at times, so an 18th-minute equaliser from former player Sandro Ramirez was hardly a surprise.
The hosts, though, were quick to respond, finding the back of the net once again around the half-hour mark through Memphis Depay and heading into half-time with a 2-1 lead. These three strikes turned out to be everything the game had to offer as a cagey second half saw Getafe looking slightly more dangerous, but unable to create any clear cut opportunities.
Barcelona, too, didn’t fare any better going forward and were ultimately lucky to get away with all three points. And here, at The Hard Tackle, we will rate the home players in their team’s narrow victory over Getafe this weekend.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen: 7.5/10
It was a pleasing sight for Barcelona fans to see Marc-Andre ter Stegen return in goal. The former Gladbach shot-stopper didn’t have it easy, though, with Getafe keeping him busy at every turn. He was very uncomfortable, at times, but a number of crucial saves and some vigilant goalkeeping was vital in helping Barca save at least a couple of points.
Back! Thank you for welcoming me the way you did, Culers ? @FCBarcelona pic.twitter.com/AX4o0PdOVZ
— Marc ter Stegen (@mterstegen1) August 29, 2021
Emerson Royal: 6.5/10
Emerson Royal was given the nod ahead of Sergino Dest at right-back. He had a decent game, as he offered good defensive solidity on the right hand side. It was vital to maintaining Barca’s balance, with Jordi Alba moving forward at every turn. Koeman, though, appeared to be disgruntled at the Brazilian, who was subbed off around the hour mark.
Ronald Araujo: 6.5/10
Ronald Araujo had a mixed game at the heart of the Barcelona defence. The young centre-back made some rash challenges, notably picking up an early yellow card even though it was slightly harsh. At the same time, his defensive commitment played a massive role in helping his team keep Getafe quiet in the second half.
Clement Lenglet: 6/10
It was yet another shoddy performance from Clement Lenglet whose lack of confidence when it comes to making defensive actions often hurt his team badly. However, it is perhaps fair to praise the centre-back for his marvellous technical ability, as he notably created an excellent goalscoring opportunity for Sergi Roberto in the second half.
Jordi Alba: 7/10
Jordi Alba started the game brightly, registering the assist for Roberto’s opener in the second minute. After that, his forays down the flanks were reduced, to an extent. The Spaniard, nonetheless, was defensively solid, though one could expect much more consistency from a player of his calibre.
Sergi Roberto: 7.5/10
Sergi Roberto was the scorer of the all-important early goal that should have set the tone for the Barcelona side to dominate the game. While the hosts couldn’t achieve that feat, the performance of Roberto was a relatively decent one. He offered good support to his teammates, appearing particularly impressive when it comes to working his way through the build-up.
Sergi Roberto in La Liga this season:
– 3 matches
– 2 goals
– 1 assist
– 75 accurate passes
– 2 big chances created pic.twitter.com/FijTX5orpK— Brian (@Bri_an2) August 29, 2021
Sergio Busquets: 7.5/10
Sergio Busquets produced a stable midfield performance in the middle of the park. He wasn’t exactly a dominating figure at the hub of the Barca midfield, but he offered optimum support to his teammates, occasionally showcasing his class with brilliant footwork. The veteran could become a lot more effective if Barcelona dominate games more aptly.
Frenkie de Jong: 8/10
Frenkie de Jong was the undisputed star player in the Barcelona midfield. He looked determined to make an impact, as he always does, moving the ball forward with menace and finding excellent passes in and around the final third. One of his passes to Memphis Depay led to the all-important winner for the Blaugrana. A strong contender for the Man of the Match.
? | Frenkie de Jong stats vs. Getafe
Worldclass ? pic.twitter.com/Dc4DUgG9Ch
— ??? (@FDJChief) August 29, 2021
Antoine Griezmann: 5/10
It was an anonymous performance from Antoine Griezmann, who wasn’t involved in anything going forward. He lacked the determination to make things happen in the final third, though the Frenchman’s defensive work was excellent as ever. His lack of influence in the attack will be a cause for concern for Koeman, however.
Memphis Depay: 7.5/10
Memphis Depay was the best Barcelona attacker in the game. He looked like the only player who was going to make things happen and breach the lines of the opposition defence. He did it multiple times, using his movements, link-up play and technical prowess to cause all sorts of problems for Getafe.
It was certainly not Depay’s best performance for FC Barcelona till date, but the Dutchman’s snap-shooting ability saw him score the winner around the half-hour mark.
MEMPHIS DEPAY ????? pic.twitter.com/ipVHiiaJdv
— Iniestazo (@INIE8TAZO_MEDIA) August 29, 2021
Martin Braithwaite: 5/10
Much like Griezmann, Martin Braithwaite didn’t offer much going forward. He tried to keep the opposing defences occupied with his movements around the wide and central areas of the pitch, but it wasn’t enough to make a substantial impact on the proceedings.
Substitutes
Sergino Dest: 7/10
Sergino Dest replaced Emerson around the hour mark, making an instant impact with his marauding runs forward. He linked up well on the right hand side, providing a few good crosses into the box, though it didn’t cause too many problems for Getafe.
Nico Gonzalez: 6.5/10
Nico Gonzalez made an impressive cameo late in the game. He looked energetic on the ball, trying to breach the opposition defences.
Gavi: 6.5/10
Much like Nico, Gavi turned a few heads with his technical brilliance in the Barcelona midfielder during the final phase of the game. Certainly deserves a few more cameos in the first team.
Oscar Mingueza: N/A
A late replacement for Griezmann. Did not play enough to warrant a rating.
