Barcelona endured a shock 2-1 home defeat to Las Palmas on Saturday, their first loss to the island side in 53 years. The upset at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys marked a bitter chapter in the club’s 125th anniversary celebrations, with the Catalans haunted by ex-players Sandro Ramirez and Jasper Cillessen, who played pivotal roles for Las Palmas.
Match Highlights
- Sandro Ramirez opened the scoring for Las Palmas early in the second half after a stunning team move.
- Raphinha equalized for Barcelona with a moment of brilliance, firing a low strike from 20 yards out.
- Fabio Silva restored Las Palmas’ lead with a composed finish following a sweeping midfield pass.
Despite relentless Barcelona pressure, including near-misses from Raphinha and returning youngster Lamine Yamal, Las Palmas held firm to secure a famous victory.
How It Happened
First Half
Barcelona dominated possession but struggled to convert their chances:
- Jasper Cillessen, a former Barca goalkeeper, denied Fermin Lopez and Pedri with crucial saves.
- Raphinha came closest, clipping the crossbar after being set up by Gavi.
Las Palmas, meanwhile, threatened sporadically, with chances for Sandro Ramirez and Javier Munoz, though neither capitalized.
Second Half
- Las Palmas Strike First: Starting from their own six-yard box, the visitors executed a flowing move capped by Sandro’s precise finish.
- Barcelona Respond: Raphinha equalized with a powerful shot, showcasing individual brilliance.
- Las Palmas Retake the Lead: Munoz’s through ball found Fabio Silva, who calmly slotted past Iñaki Peña.
Barcelona poured forward in search of an equalizer, but Cillessen thwarted them repeatedly, including a spectacular save to deny Raphinha. Late appeals for a penalty were waved away, sealing Barca’s defeat.
Anniversary Spoiled
Celebrating their 125th anniversary, Barcelona donned special white shorts as a nod to their early kits. However, the occasion turned sour against a Las Palmas side fighting near the bottom of the La Liga table.
Key Talking Points
Former Players Shine
Ex-Barcelona players Sandro Ramirez and Jasper Cillessen delivered standout performances. Sandro’s goal and Cillessen’s multiple saves proved decisive in securing the victory for Las Palmas.
Raphinha’s Resilience
Raphinha was Barcelona’s standout performer, scoring a stunning equalizer and constantly threatening the Las Palmas defense. However, his efforts weren’t enough to save the Catalans.
Lamine Yamal’s Impact
The 17-year-old returned from injury at halftime, immediately improving Barca’s attacking flow. Despite his influence, Yamal wasn’t at full match sharpness and couldn’t turn the tide for his team.
Alejandro Balde Injury Scare
Left-back Alejandro Balde suffered a throat injury after a collision with Sandro in the first half. He was substituted and briefly caused concern, though the club later confirmed he had recovered.
What’s Next for Barcelona?
Barcelona must regroup after this shock defeat as they look to regain ground in La Liga. Their reliance on key players like Yamal and Robert Lewandowski highlights the need for consistent performances across the squad.
Las Palmas, meanwhile, will hope to build on this historic win to climb further away from the relegation zone.
SOURCE: 90min.com
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