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#4. Barcelona’s defensive deficiencies rear their ugly head
Barcelona’s title-winning campaign last term was built on a strong defensive foundation. However, in 2018-19, they have been anything but solid defensively.
In the current season, they have looked vulnerable away from home. In addition to the league, Barcelona’s defensive frailties have also been exposed on the road in the Copa Del Rey. Against Sevilla, their defensive shortcomings were again brought to the fore.
The first goal came about after the visitors were caught out on the break. The play was developing on Barcelona’s right side and hence, Jordi Alba had indulged in one of his trademark runs. However, as soon as the ball was lost, the left-back was out of position. The void left by Alba was mercilessly exploited by Navas who stroked the ball home.
For the second goal, Barcelona completely went to sleep as Mercado was accorded the freedom of the penalty box to fire past Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.
At the moment, Barcelona are fighting on all possible fronts and their attack has enough firepower to dig them out of most domestic and continental holes. Yet, if they contrive to keep digging their own defensive graves, they might not be left with too many escape routes.
