After European disappointment, Barcelona suffers new blow at low-fly Almería

It was only the second league defeat of the season, after the 3-1 at Real Madrid on Oct. 16 last year. The difference between Barcelona and number two Real is seven points. Real played a draw against Atlético Madrid on Saturday (1-1).

Massive catches, a stud forward if possible and then just see what the two strikers can do; Almería’s game was as simple as it was effective. The only chance was beautifully exploited by El Bilal Touré in the 24th minute.

The Malian striker outsmarted Barça defender Andreas Christensen after a pass from Colombian Luis Suárez and passed goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen with a cutting shot through the underside of the crossbar.

Barça looked very stroppy, combining without zest and creating nothing before halftime. The Catalans also played against themselves after halftime. Alméria was pushed far back, but once they got to the sixteen, there was no one with a good inspiration.

With a header from substitute Ronald Araújo, coach Xavi’s team was close to a goal once. The header went wide. Barcelona’s only shot on goal, by substitute Ángel Alarcón, was an easy prey for goalkeeper Fernando Martínez.