La Liga, Week 9: Barcelona draw against Osasuna, Atlético Madrid can’t take advantage

It’s still early in the season but for the first time in years, it’s beginning to feel like there might an honest to goodness title race developing in La Liga between three teams, rather than the usual two-horse race.

In the “cool story of the season” position sits Elche who, thanks to their win over Real Betis, moved all the way up to ninth in the table. Not a bad spot early in the year for one of the newly-promoted sides. Logic says they may not be able to hang around at those lofty heights, but every point they pick-up now could make life in the spring much easier.

Los Rojillos responded well, though, and despite all the usual possession and pressure you’d expect to see Barcelona put on their opponent, Osasuna stood tall and kept the game scoreless. Cesc Fábregas, playing in Lionel Messi’s false nine role, was particularly ineffective wasting several great chances created by Neymar, who was excellent in the first half.

The frustration continued early in the second half for Barca as Osuana’s defense continued to stand strong and more opportunities were wasted. In the 54th minute Martin Montoya’s cross on a counter attack just missed connecting with a sliding Neymar at the far post. There was nothing between the Brazilian and the goal but air, but he couldn’t reach the ball in time.