Barcelona vs Hercules Match Preview
It's been made clear this year's fight will be held on close quarters, as many Spanish giants are determined to take the crown off Barcelona's head. Pep Guardiola's boys, on the other hand, have shown no weaknesses. even after Zlatan Ibrahimovic's departure. Carles Puyol has been evolving outstandingly from his injuries and though his presence is not yet confirmed for this game, it's likely to see him soon strengthening Barcelona's back line. Gabriel Milito might have recovered his best level, as seen during Argentina's friendly match this week and might have a shot within the starting eleven, probably linked to Puyol's evolution. Only four players from Pep Guardiola's regular choice are at the moment in Barcelona, training, and this can be particularly dangerous against an enigmatic rival whose weapons are finally fully loaded.
Adriano has boosted FC Barcelona's attack greatly thanks to his speed and creativity from the left wing, and he might be Lio Messi's ideal partner to break through any defense whatsoever. Only a few days before their first Champions League's match, the Blaugranas might have too much to think about prior to this game, but the security of receiving Hercules at home might give them the needed edge to bag the three points. FC Barcelona is defending the crown, and at the moment it doesn't seem like any other team can jeopardize their leadership.
This trip to the Camp Nou will be truly Herculean test for the Blanquiazules. If Hercules CF is unable to secure a certain numbers of points by the end of the month, the expectations of the crowds and the mood of the players will diminish greatly. Last week's first match at Spain's highest football category left a bitter aftertaste, as the team appeared rather disconnected and unable to pose a real threat to their rival's defense. Team's deadliest striker Nelson Haedo Valdez believes this match is likely be similar to Paraguay vs Spain in South Africa. "Paraguay didn't have a squad up to the circumstances, but was focused, kept on pressing and went for a victory at any cost. If we do so, we'll play a great game" were his words regarding this match. The Paraguayan might be playing his first game for Hercules, as he's now fully recovered from his injuries and ready to perform.
Team's defender David Cortes recognized "you cannot go to the Camp Nou with fear, for that can cost you from four to five goals on your own net" were his cautious words. Hercules managed to sign a strong offense with Valdez and David Trezeguet. Barcelona will have to keep them under a close watch not to be ambushed on home ground.
Barcelona vs Hercules Match Report
Javier Mascherano's debut for the Cule squad ended up in shame, for Hercules' goalkeeper Catalayud denied Lio Messi and David Villa any chance to score. Blanquiazules' overwhelming offense (David Trezeguet and Nelson Haedo Valdez) found a way to break through Pep Guardiola's defensive drawing early in the first half, and the Paraguayan scored twice to secure the victory. "We lacked both rhythm and intensity against Hercules. We found no inner corridors and when your rival has a good team work it's difficult if you lack precision. They got ahead early and we could do nothing to change the course of the game". Guardiola didn't try to make up an excuse: Messi was just a shadow and Pedro, Bojan could not help in the offense; Xavi and Daniel Alves, of weak performance, were substituted too little too late, and Barcelona lost its opportunity to finish the week standing at the top.
Maxwell and Adriano tried to overwhelm from the wings, but they lack a referent on the midfield to interact and lead the advance. Esteban Vigo celebrated a historical victory against Barcelona. "This will be forever tattooed on the memories of our followers. We've done better than expected, but this is because we could read Barcelona's play properly and reacted accordingly. We haven't won anything yet, but this boosts my confidence greatly" were Hercules' manager words after the match. Three points lost by the Blaugranas that the other giants could capitalize.
