Fernando Llorente managed to take advantage of one of those weak links I mentioned but found the other in inspired form! The big striker got inbetween Pique and Busquets to head a cross from Gabilondo towards goal, but Pinto dived full length to beat the ball away with his left hand. Cracking save from the reserve keeper. Still, can’t see Valdes having many problems reclaiming his sport when he returns from injury.
Barcelona Vs Athletic Bilbao: Half-Time - Pinto To The Rescue!
Apart from that chance and Susaetas header earlier on you can’t say Busquets, Pique and Pinto have had much to worry about. That said, it is in no small part down to one of Barcas unsung heros in my eyes, Eric Abidal. The French full-back mops up absolutely everything, using his electric pace to cut out any dangerous passes that find their way behinf Pique and Busquets.
For Barcelona, you won’t be surprised to hear they are enjoying pretty much all the possession, but apart from Villas goal and his chip that struck the bar, there havnt been many clear cut chances. Plenty of passes in and around the area, and perhaps far too many little flicks and backheels, but lacking in the final ball.
Barca are 1-0 up, but as long as it stays like this Athletic Bilbao will feel that they have it in them to find an equaliser, more than likely from the head or boots of Fernando Llorente. I wonder how long it will be until we see Bilbaos very own Lionel Messi….young Iker Muniain?
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