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Barcelona fans were not pleased with Robert Lewandowski's performance in the team's 1-0 La Liga win against Atletico Madrid on Saturday (April 23).
Lewandowski has had an uncharacteristically poor outing in front of goal for club and country, failing to provide a goal contribution in nine of his last ten games. He failed to make an impact in the Blaugrana's narrow win against Los Colchoneros in Catalonia, too.
Despite playing the full 90 minutes, Lewandowski managed only 15 passes - the fewest of any Barca player who started the game. He managed just one shot on target and also missed a glorious chance in the 76th minute to double his team's lead.
The Poland international found himself one-on-one with Jan Oblak after a lofted ball over the top caught out the Atletico Madrid defense. With the Slovakian shot-stopper out of the box, 'Lewy' decided to execute a low shot instead of attempting to round the 'keeper or chip the ball.
It made for horrible viewing for Barcelona fans as the ball went out for a goal kick. Some even pointed out that the former Bayern Munich striker should have passed to Raphinha, who was wide open, instead of taking the shot himself.
One said:
"Honestly, Lewandowski needs some time on the bench. I know Xavi will never do it, mainly because he's literally our only CF, but his performances have been a geniune annoyance, not just his struggles in front of goal since the WC."
Another chimed in:
"I have no words for Lewandowski honestly, this is the worst miss of the season and it's not close"
Here is what a select few of them had to say on Twitter about Lewandowski's subpar performance against Atletico:
Xavi Hernandez does not have a natural No. 9 to take Lewandowski's place, which could be why the Pole has retained his place in the starting XI despite his poor form.
Only one of his 38 appearances across competitions this season has come from the bench. The 34-year-old has scored 27 goals and provided seven assists.
Barcelona boss delighted with Atletico Madrid win
Before their loss against Barcelona, Atletico Madrid were unbeaten in 90 minutes in their last 15 games across competitions.
The Blaugrana, meanwhile, were on a three-game winless run across competitions - their worst streak this season. However, they kept a clean sheet against Diego Simeone's team and scored the all-important goal through Ferran Torres on the stroke of half-time.
A satisfied Xavi Hernandez said after the Camp Nou game (via @barcacentre on Twitter):
"We have beaten a great team. Atletico Madrid are in an extraordinary moment. It has been a crucial victory. There are always criticisms, and today there will be too, but I'm very happy and satisfied."
Both teams managed 13 attempts apiece, and Atletico had a handful of chances to score. Barcelona, though, bossed possession and allowed Atletico just 37% of the ball.
