Barcelona’s 1×1 at Halftime Against Athletic Club: Injuries Disrupt Promising Performance
Follow the live updates of the match between Athletic Club and FC Barcelona as the teams go into halftime with a 0-0 draw at San Mamés. However, the notable setbacks are the injuries to Frenkie de Jong and Pedri. Despite having the chance to secure the second spot in the standings, Xavi’s side is playing a more than acceptable match against an Athletic Club seemingly fatigued from the Copa del Rey, but they lack some punch upfront.
Xavi Hernández fielded the same starting eleven that dominated Getafe in the previous match (4-0) with just one change: Pedri in for Joao Félix. Thus, Pau Cubarsí retained his position in defense alongside Raphinha up front, while Iñigo Martínez and Lamine Yamal stayed on the bench.
Marked by injuries, the first concerning moment came with Frenkie de Jong’s injury, replaced by Fermín, and Pedri dropping into the central role. However, Pedri’s unfortunate injury before halftime forced Xavi to shuffle again, bringing in Lamine and moving Raphinha to the left.
Despite being superior to their opponents, the injuries undeniably disrupted Barcelona’s rhythm.
Here’s the 1×1 assessment of FC Barcelona players at halftime against Athletic Club:
6 Ter Stegen, Goalkeeper Focused
Handled the little work he had efficiently, attentive to aerial duels and confident with his feet.
5 Jules Koundé, Defender Offensive
More impactful in attack than defense, the Frenchman displayed some lingering shortcomings.
7 Pau Cubarsí, Defender Confirmed
Maintained his place in the starting lineup, proving himself once again. Not as dazzling as against Getafe but equally reliable.
6 Ronald Araujo, Defender Suspended
Playing alongside Cubarsí on the left side of the defensive axis, the Uruguayan remained solid, despite a yellow card that rules him out against Mallorca.
7 Joao Cancelo, Defender Adventurous
One of the standout performers in the first half, constantly posing a threat down the flank. Almost scored a spectacular long-range goal.
6 Andreas Christensen, Defender Established
The Dane is growing in the midfield role. He’s settling in better and seems poised to make it his position.
5 Frenkie de Jong, Midfielder Concerning
Controlling the game until an awkward fall twisted his right ankle. Barcelona anxiously awaits news about his availability against Napoli.
7 Ilkay Gündogan, Midfielder Surgeon
Consistently making a difference in recent games, the German showcased his passing skills in San Mamés, providing two precise assists.
5 Pedri, Midfielder Disheartened
Returning to the team, Pedri showed flashes of his class but suffered an injury from pressing just before halftime, leaving him in tears on the bench.
5 Raphinha, Forward Diminishing
Started strong but faded as minutes passed. Took Pedri’s place on the left after the injury but needs to step up.
5 Robert Lewandowski, Forward Invisible
Had minimal involvement in the game, but known for seizing opportunities. Will be interesting to see if he makes an impact in the second half.
6 Fermín López, Midfielder Persistent
Entered the field with determination, had a good chance right after coming on. Showed great effort.
5 Lamine Yamal, Forward Pending
Came on for Pedri in the closing minutes of the first half. Expected to contribute more in the second half.
