Watching the Catalans get stunned twice in a space of three days caused many to put in question the style and form of the club. Although there were terrible defensive problems and lack of efficiency in front especially in the second half of their match against Real Sociedad, they undoubtedly put on a better show for their fans in their following game against AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League.
Certainly though, as one might say, luck was what was missing on Tuesday - above anything else. With hard work not really paying off, it appeared Barcelona were forced to swallow yet another setback, which could in fact have transformed in a victory any other day.
In point of fact though, this has not necessarily locked the team in a long period of troubles, and redemption against Osasuna may well help them take back control of their season. Fortunately for them, being the hosts against Los Rojillos, they have great chances of snatching the authority to take all three points.
La Liga Table
As it stands prior to Day 3, seventh place Osasuna and fourth place Barcelona both have four points in the standings. The Gorritxoak drew their first match goalless away to Atletico Madrid late in August, and then went on to humble Sporting Gijon 2-1 at home thanks to first half goals from Nino and Cejudo.
On their side, Los Cules still benefit from their devastating 5-0 triumph over Villarreal on the opening matchday. With this being their only win thus far, arch-rivals Real Madrid currently occupy the pole position - two points ahead. The gap between the two giants is likely to remain intact after this weekend; but still, another slip from the defending European champions would add more significance to El Clasico taking place later in December.
Team News
David Villa, Lionel Messi, Cesc Fabregas and Xavi Hernandez are all expected to start for Barcelona. With the absence of an injured Gerard Pique, Coach Guardiola will be playing Sergio Busquets as a centre back along with Carles Puyol, who will be making his long-awaited return in La Liga. Alexis Sanchez and Andres Iniesta are also set to miss the game due to injuries. Both players may only get back in action in a few weeks.
Osasuna will be without five influential players. Among those are Masoud Shojaei, who is nursing a foot injury, an Ion Echaide, affected with long-term knee damage. A similar wound makes Javad Nekouam unable to perform, while hamstring injury victim Sergio will also miss the match.
Relevant Quote
Pep Guardiola (press conference): “[Osasuna coach Jose Luis Mendilibar] he changes very little whoever the opposition is. He creates pressure, he is aggressive and his teams have always caused us problems.”
