FC Barcelona v. Napoli (1-1): Torres Penalty Isn’t Adequate Enough In Xavi’s Europa League Opener

The Barca Breakdown discussed the draw between Barcelona and Napoli in the Europa League. Coming into the game, Barca knew this would not be an easy game facing the 3rd place Italians. Although, with the acquisition of Ferran Torres, Adama Traore, Aubamayeng, and the recent performances, we had high hopes. The line up left fans with some surprises as Busquets and Gavi didn't start and we saw Minguza for Dest, Nico in the Midfield, and a trio of Aubamayeng, Torres, and Traore in the front.

The game was very pleasing with many chances and beautiful play. However, Barca fell asleep for one instance and Napoli took advantage with a goal in the 29'. Barca didn't quit, or really Torres didn't quit.

Shot after shot Torres skied many great opportunities leaving Barca in a race against the clock. Finally in the 59' Traore gets a penalty drawn and Torres takes charge and equalizes. More and more opportunities fell for Torres but he could not convert. Barca ended the game with 20 shots and only 4 on target. Now the results do not match the performance that we saw.

Barca performed beautifully and even had Dembele and Luuk De Jong come in later in the game to try and score a late goal. While we loved the idea of Traore, Dembele, and LDJ, we commented again on the fact that LDJ only got 10 minutes of play and Dembele around 25. It must be said that Xavi needs to put subs on earlier so that Barca have a chance to take the lead.