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Walk-in guard during Spanish Liga match between Getafe CF and FC Barcelona at the Col. Alfonso Perez stadium in Getafe on August 13, 2023. Image credit: Getty Images |
The start of a new season is always filled with anticipation and excitement for football fans around the world. For FC Barcelona, the 2023-2024 La Liga season began with a goalless draw against Getafe on August 13, 2023. While some may view this result as a disappointment, history has shown that a draw in the opening match does not necessarily dictate the outcome of the entire season. In fact, on two out of three occasions when Barcelona started La Liga with a 0-0 draw, they went on to win the title. Let's delve into the details of this match and explore the implications for Barcelona's season ahead.
A Bittersweet Start
Barcelona's clash with Getafe ended in a goalless draw, leaving a bittersweet taste in the mouths of Barça fans. While a point away from home is generally considered a positive result, Barcelona always expects more. However, it's important to remember that the season is a marathon, not a sprint. Last season, Barcelona also began with a 0-0 draw and still managed to achieve a respectable outcome. This early in the season, there is no reason to panic or doubt the team's potential.
Historical Precedents
Looking back at previous seasons, we find two instances where Barcelona started with a goalless draw and went on to win the league title. In the 2005/06 season, under the management of Frank Rijkaard, Barcelona's campaign began with a slow start but ended with the club's 18th league title and their second Champions League triumph. Similarly, in the 2022-2023 season, Barcelona started with a draw against Rayo Vallecano but eventually cruised to the championship with an impressive 88 points. Only once before has Barça opened a campaign with a goalless draw, and it was in 2007–08, when neither they nor Racing Santander were able to score at the Sardinero. With Barça ultimately having to settle for third place, that campaign didn't turn out as well as the previous two.
The Getafe Match Analysis
The match against Getafe showcased Barcelona's new signings, including Andreas Christensen, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski. However, despite the presence of these talented players, Barcelona struggled to find their rhythm in attack. Raphinha, in particular, had a chance to win a penalty early in the game but was denied by the referee. The first half ended with Getafe having the best opportunity to score, but Marc-Andre ter Stegen made a crucial save.
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Raphinha received a yellow card during the Spanish Liga match between Getafe CF and FC Barcelona at the Col. Alfonso Perez stadium in Getafe on August 13, 2023. Image credit: Getty Images |
Second Half and Red Cards
The second half saw Getafe starting strongly, taking advantage of their numerical superiority after Raphinha was sent off for elbowing an opponent. However, Getafe's advantage was short-lived as Jaime Mata received a second yellow card, leveling the playing field. Barcelona pressed on to find an opener but was consistently thwarted by Getafe's solid defense. Late drama ensued when Barcelona coach Xavi was sent to the stands for dissent, and a potential penalty decision went in favor of Getafe.
Getafe's Frustration for Barcelona
Getafe has proven to be a challenging opponent for Barcelona, as this draw marks the third consecutive goalless draw between the two teams at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez. Getafe's solid defense and physical approach have consistently frustrated Barcelona's attack. This result serves as a reminder that smaller teams can pose significant challenges for the giants of La Liga.
While Barcelona's draw against Getafe may not have been the ideal start to the season, history has shown that it is too early to draw conclusions about the team's performance. Barcelona has overcome similar situations in the past and still managed to achieve success. As the season progresses, it will be crucial for the team to find their rhythm and capitalize on their attacking potential. Barcelona fans can remain optimistic, knowing that a draw in the opening match does not define the outcome of the entire season.