Messi's Historic Goal Not Enough As Barca's Title Expectations Dashed
01 July, 2020
Atletico Madrid did their neighbours Real Madrid a favour by denying FC Barcelona three things at the Camp Nou on Tuesday night time.
LaLiga
Result: FC Barcelona 2-2 Atletico Madrid
Date: 30 June 2020
Venue: Camp Nou
Once again there was room for Antoine Griezmann in the beginning line-up for the hosts, while Ansu Fati as well dropped to the bench.
It was a lively start in the Camp Nou while the hosts took the business lead in fortunate circumstances on 11 a few minutes when Diego Costa deflected the ball into his own net.
Costa had a chance to redeem himself a number of a few minutes later when Atletico were awarded penalty, however the Spaniard's effort was first saved Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
However, the referee ordered a retake as Ter Stegen came away his line prematurily . but Saul Niguez took responsibility this time around and levelled things from 12 yards out.
The Catalan giants pushed for another goal as first half went on, with Messi hitting the woodwork while the Argentine superstar was denied by Jan Oblak right before the break.
The hosts were awarded a penalty six minutes following the restart when Nelson Semedo had been brought straight down in the box. Messi stepped up and manufactured no blunder from 12 yards to restore the lead.
The was more penalty drama as Atletico were awarded their second spot-kick of the game after Semedo went from hero to villain by clipping the heels of Yannick Carrasco, which allowed Saul to slot residence once more and complete his brace.
Atletico trainer Diego Simeone went for a far more attacking strategy in the ultimate 20 minutes, with Marcos Llorente making method for record signing Joao Felix.
As time passes running out, Arturo Vidal squandered a chance to restore Barcelona's lead on 75 minutes after firing wide of the upright after goal-mouth scramble.
Both sides went full out in the ultimate stages in search of the winning goal but neither were successful, as Barcelona missed the opportunity to move top ahead of Real Madrid's clash against Getafe on Wednesday.
Source: www.soccerladuma.co.za