Spanish Cup: Barcelona 1-0 vs. Real Betis - First Half Report
The Spanish Champions, Barcelona were to face the second division Spanish side Real Betis in the Spanish Super Cup’s first leg at Nou Camp. Josep Guardiola played his full side except for the first choice full back Eric Abidal. Before the match, the Spanish coach Josep Guardiola clearly stated that the next game for them is not going to be very easy and after the first half, the picture was quite clear in respect to what he was trying to say.
The Spanish La Liga table toppers were playing a traditional 4-3-3. Victor Valdes was rested so Jose http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/David-Villa-c10629 in the centre as a striker.
On the other hand, Real Betis played a traditional 4-4-2. Casto was the one who featured between the two poles as a goal stopper and he was helped by Isidoro, Miki http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Jorge-Molina-c19195 featured up front as strikers.
The game started slowly with Barcelona trying to keep possession of the ball. The traditional Josep Guardiola’s side was trying to keep most of the possession http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/AS-Real-c38478 Betis were left chasing shadows. The Spanish Champions had immense opportunities throughout the game, but they were finding it difficult to finish the ball.
David Villa had two opportunities that could see him score a goal in the Nou Camp during the game; however, he simply could not find the back of the net and chose power over technique, as smashed the ball towards the goalkeeper twice, and could not score.
Meanwhile, Real Betis were definitely not in the Nou Camp to lose and they definitely did not lie down during the game. By adapting counter attacking tactics, the quick-footed Real Betis strikers caused http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Castro-c8590, who was constantly being a threat for the opposing side.
Even though Real Betis looked to be in extraordinary form, they still conceded when the La Blaugrana went forward on the break. As Real Betis won a free kick, most of them came forward. However, http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Lionel-Messi-c22296. The Argentinean, who looked to be quiet during the game, easily scooped the ball over the goalkeeper of Real Betis and scored his first goal, from open play, of the year 2011.
Nonetheless, there was some last minute action as Salva Sevilla got the ball outside the 18-yard box for the visitors and shot the ball. However, his powerful effort struck the cross bar and deflected outside without finding the back of the net.
With the first half ending, Barcelona were winning the game 1-0 at the Nou Camp. However, the score line did not tell the whole story as both the teams had an extraordinary first half. Barcelona played fabulous attacking football while their opponents relied on counter attacks and succeeded enough to trouble the defensive lines of Barcelona.
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