Even a team that has already wrapped up the La Liga crown can afford to take its foot off the pedal, but Barcelona found themselves on the back foot i...
Even a team that has already wrapped up the La Liga crown can afford to take its foot off the pedal, but Barcelona found themselves on the back foot in Vitoria as Alaves struck a crucial first blow just before the half time whistle. Hansi Flick, the German tactician, opted to shuffle his pack for this trip to Mendizorroza, handing starting jerseys to the likes of Wojciech Szczesny and several fringe players. The decision, however, did not yield the desired rhythm as the home side showed formidable resilience and clinical intent in the final third of the first half. Alaves, fighting for their own pride and position in the scheme of things, gave a good account of themselves against the league leaders. The deadlock was broken when the home side capitalised on a momentary lapse in concentration from the Barcelona defence, sending their travelling supporters into a state of shock. For the Catalans, the dream of reaching 100 points now hangs in the balance. Every dropped point at this stage of the season is a bitter pill to swallow, and the powers that be at the Nou Camp will be anxiously watching how Flick. �s men respond after the restart. GoalZaza brings you the exclusive details of this gripping encounter from the heart of the Basque Country. In Lagos, at a popular viewing centre in Surulere, the atmosphere was tense. As the Alaves goal hit the back of the net, a collective groan erupted from the crowd. Many fans, clad in replica Barca jerseys, shook their heads in disbelief while others quietly whispered prayers for a second half comeback. The bold ones who had wagered their hard earned naira on a Barcelona victory began to glance nervously at their betting slips, knowing that in football, nothing is ever certain until the final whistle blows.
