Barcelona 4-0 Osasuna: Match Review

Barcelona’s difficult week started with a clash against Osasuna at home. With Galatasaray, Real Madrid and Sevilla as the next three opponents, it was crucial for Xavi’s side to get three points especially given Atletico Madrid’s recent surge in form.

Against Jacob Arrasate’s side, Xavi opted to give Ronald Araujo a rest. Gerard Pique and Eric Garcia started with Dani Alves to their right. Frenkie de Jong was benched for Gavi while Ferran Torres, Aubameyang and Ousmane Dembele played in the attack.

It only took 13 minutes for the Catalans to get onto the scoresheet. A rash challenge inside the box by Nacho Vidal meant the hosts won an early penalty. Torres stepped up to for the formalities and neatly placed the ball into the bottom corner.

In the 21st minute, Barcelona doubled their advantage over Osasuna. The move originated from Dembele who threaded in an incisive ball into the box. The pass found Torres in front of the goal and the Spanish winger executed it with a calm finish.

Two goals was far from enough for the Blaugranes as they only increased in confidence and comfort after their strong start. Six minutes later, Xavi’s man were 3-0 up. Once again, the goal came off a Dembele assist. The Frenchman delivered a low cross from his wide position, and Aubameyang connected with it exquisitely.

As the first half ended, Barcelona had a three goal advantage over Osasuna, 72% possession and ten shots.

The second half began similarly, with Dembele wreaking havoc on the right-wing. The winger combined well with Aubameyang to constantly threaten the visitors.

Gerard Pique got on the end of Pedri’s ball in the 55th minute and scored, but the goal was ruled out for offside. The centre back was replaced by Clement Lenglet soon after.

An incredible shot from Dembele was saved by Herrera in the 70th minute. Xavi opted to make more changes and brought on Riqui Puig and Memphis Depay. Once again, the paid off in spectacular fashion.

In the 75th minute, Puig got onto the end of a great ball and fired a low volley. His effort was saved by Herrera, but the youngster was persistent. He collected the rebound, went around the goalkeeper and wove the ball into the back of the net.

Martin Braithwaite and Oscar Mingueza came on for Barcelona in the last ten minutes. The hosts dominated even the closing minutes and completed a perfect game. They will now meet Galatasaray in a must-win game midweek.

Full time: Barcelona 4-0 Osasuna