Last night's game, Barcelona's 3-3 draw at home to Granada, was a mixed game. The process and result of the game made me deeply appreciate the charm of football, but also feel helplessness and regret. Xavi said the team would not give up on the title race, but in this game, we clearly missed a great opportunity to close the gap.
First of all, Granada's performance is respectable. They did a very good job of tactical planning and pressing, and it was difficult for us to play at the level we should have. We had the advantage in possession and chances, but we were clearly lacking in completion。The game reflected a problem that has plagued us this season – defensive holes and a lack of decisiveness in key moments.
Xavi mentioned the defensive issues and it was really our weakness. Scoring three goals and conceding three goals is unacceptable for a title contender. Defensive mistakes led directly to the ups and downs of our season. For example, in today's game, the second goal conceded was simply suffocating, and it was obviously a big communication problem. We have to improve our defense and reduce our mistakes to make the game less tricky
Xavi also said something that struck me that we only pick up the pace in an emergency, and that's a real problem. We should give it our all from the first minute of the game and not wait until the situation is not good to start accelerating. Today's game was a clear example of this, we didn't have the fitness and pace to break deep, and Granada's individual tactics made it difficult for us to get into the rhythm of the game.
Even though Xavi and the players have said they will not give up, we all know that today's result has made the road to the title even more difficult. Missing the opportunity to close the gap made our position in the league even more awkward. Our defensive problems, especially the habit of creating chances for the opposition when there is no threat, are something that has to be addressed.
However, judging by the team's hard work and fighting spirit, I still believe in Barcelona. We have the conviction and the courage, but we just need to be more precise in our strategy and execution. Xavi and the players need to reflect and we, as fans, will continue to support them. Hopefully, in the next games, Barcelona can find their rhythm, improve their defense, reduce their mistakes, and allow us to leave more memorable moments this season.
The season is still long, and anything is possible. For those of us who will always support the Blues, as long as the team doesn't give up on the pitch, we will never give up. Hopefully, Barcelona can learn from this game, regroup and continue our title race. Come on, Barcelona!