Barcelona's formation changes ended up costing them a disappointing and shameful defeat against recently promoted Alavés.
Mauricio Pellegrino's men shocked the 2015-2016 La Liga champions with a top-caliber performance, taking advantage of Luis Enrique's decisions prior to the beginning of the match. The Catalans' boss decided to leave Messi, Suarez and Iniesta on the bench, and during Javier Mascherano's worst night with Los Blaugranas, the team from Vitoria collected three points for the first time this season.
Deyverson scored the opening goal for Alavés, following a right-wing cross. Mascherano failed to cover him on time, giving the Brazilian striker a chance to celebrate. Moments after the second half began, Jeremy Mathieu scored the equalizer, but almost immediately wasted a chance in front of goal, keeping Alaves' hopes alive.
When the game neared its conclusion, Mascherano failed to clear a ball from Barcelona's box, leaving it served on a platter for Ibai Gomez to send into the back of the net.
Fans were absolutely astounded by Alaves' fearless display. Here are some of their best comments.
"This is Alaves' second-ever win at Camp Nou. Their 1st win came back in the 1999-00 league"
#OJOALDATO - El Alavés ha ganado un partido oficial en campo del Barça por segunda vez (ganó 0-1 en La Liga 1999-00 con gol de Nan Ribera)
— MisterChip (Alexis) (@2010MisterChip) September 10, 2016
Barca managed only 2 shots on target vs Alaves, fewest they've managed in a home league game since October 2012 (vs Real Madrid) [whoscored]
— Barcastuff (@barcastuff_real) September 10, 2016
I know that Lucho were trying to rotate some players, but certainly, I felt he underestimated Alavés way too much.
— Nick (@BusquetsLegacy) September 10, 2016
Losing at Alavés at home… This loss is on Lucho. Thankfully a mistake made at the beginning of the season. https://t.co/MedOwqRfZD
— Rafael Hernández (@RafaelH117) September 10, 2016
Barca fans too busy supporting City to care
— Nicole ΑΩ (@NickiDupre) September 10, 2016
If Barca can't trust the backups to get it done vs. small teams, MSN is gonna play every minute & be toast late in the year when it matters.
— Gianluca Nesci (@GianlucaNesci) September 10, 2016
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