Slavia Prague 1-2 Barcelona: 3 Reasons why the Blaugrana won | Champions League 2019/20

#2 Barcelona slightly more clinical in the attacking third

Barcelona, despite their profligacy, did just enough

The affair at Prague provided plenty of entertainment for the fans as both teams refused to back down, thereby attacking the other at every possible opportunity. Though the visitors went ahead early, the home side responded with plenty of offensive verve, meaning that they carved out quite a few openings.

However, Slavia were unable to apply the finishing touches as their forwards were culpable of missing a couple of gilt-edged opportunities. Moments after conceding the opener, the hosts worked the ball well on the left flank and Boril squared the ball for Jaroslav Zeleny. The Czech Republic international though, spurned the chance as he mustered a tame effort that was saved by Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

In the 36th minute, Lukas Masopust was accorded an equally brilliant opportunity. Akin to his teammate though, he also managed a rather wretched attempt at goal, an effort that ter Stegen gobbled up easily.

To put things into further perspective, Slavia managed 24 shots on goal but only managed to breach the Barcelona rear-guard once.

Though Barcelona also missed a host of chances, they did just enough to emerge from a tense and titanic encounter unscathed. Messi popped up with a clinical finish in the first half while Suarez displayed exemplary awareness to pounce on a loose ball for the winner.

Thus, despite playing an effervescent brand of football throughout the game, Slavia came unstuck. And, though they deserved a touch more from the match, they probably have only themselves to blame.