Ah, February, the single most dreadful time of the year for all things FC Barcelona. While a certain dose of superstition definitely plays a huge role in believing in what Cules popularly call “Hlebruary”, some facts simply cannot be totally overlooked. The Catalans do struggle just around the second month of the year and going into the third every single year.
Be it superstition, a tough schedule, bad management or just a certain dose of bad luck, Barcelona and February do not get along, as can be seen from no wins from their three games this month. Until the game against Real Valladolid, that is.
This February-specific dip in form was also seen in all its glory against a team that is fighting relegation in La Liga. Nevertheless the hosts managed to get the all-important three points at the Camp Nou. This tactical analysis will use statistics to tell you just how Barcelona got away with a poor performance but also with the full spoils for themselves.
Lineups
Barcelona (4-3-3)
Starting XI: Ter Stegen – Sergi, Pique, Vermaelen, Alba – Aleña, Busquets, Vidal – Messi, Boateng, Dembele
Bench: Iñaki Peña, Lenglet, Semedo, Coutinho, Rakitić, Suárez, Malcom
Coach: Ernesto Valverde
Real Valladolid (3-4-1-2)
Starting XI: Masip – Joaquin, Kikio Olivas, Calero – Antoñito, Michel, Anuar, Nacho – Verde – Sergi Guardiola, Enes Ünal
Bench: Yoel, Boarja, Moyand, Toni, Duje Cop, Keko, Stiven Plaza
Coach: Sergio Gonzalez
To read the full match analysis, click here.
