0-2: UD Almería lack pinpoint accuracy against FC Barcelona
The hopeful Rojiblancos created many scoring chances at the Power Horse Stadium, but their lack of creativity in attack condemned them against the Culés, who did not miss the few they whipped in
Despite playing a fairly good game, UD Almería were unable to score against FC Barcelona on home turf. The Culés knew how to make the most of the lack of pinpoint accuracy of the Rojiblancos. Fermín earned Barça all three points thanks to a wonderful brace.
The hosts lacked creativity in attack and in spite of the previous defeat at the Benito Villamarín stadium against Betis, the team put in a powerful attacking display, which is why head coach Pepe Mel barely rotated the starting XI. Only two changes were made in defence, César Montes came on for injured Edgar, while Bruno Langa took Centelles' place.
The Rojiblancos started the match against FC Barcelona looking hopeful and optimistic, with clear ideas and defensive and attacking skills. In fact, Bruno Langa could have put his side ahead with an explosive shot from inside the six-yard box, but keeper Ter Stegen denied him as failed to yield the opening goal. Once the quarter of an hour had passed, Fermín slotted the Blaugranas ahead after heading in past just a few yards away from Maximiano. Despite this setback, the Indálicos did not collapse and continued putting in a brave fight with hopes and Baptistão was very, very close to grabbing the leveller. After a great solo play, the Brazilian was left alone against the German goalkeeper, yet his strike went close to the post.
When the first half was coming to an end, in the 42nd minute, Embarba squandered another great chance to make it 1-1. An exceptional cross from Jonathan Viera left the Rojiblanco attacker in a good position, although somewhat off the mark for the shot. His crossed and low attempt crashed into the post unfortunately. Pepe Mel's side deserved a draw, but, despite their fine efforts, UD Almería went down the tunnel trailing 0-1.
The second half saw by far the clearest of all the opportunities conjured up by UD Almería. A loose ball inside the six-yard box was picked up by Choco Lozano a few yards from the goal, but the Honduran tried to adjust so much so that his shot was missed, just grazing the post of the goal defended by Ter Stegen, without a doubt, the clearest chance for the Andalusian team.
Just like in the opening half, the first opportunity that Barça had was seized. Fermín was on fire as he fired in his second, leaving the Rojiblancos disheartened as they did not manage to find the back of the Catalans' net.
