2. Is this really Europe’s best defence?
This was billed as the clash of Europe’s best attack against Europe’s best defence. On paper at least, this was a clash between the unstoppable force that scored 30 goals in nine games and the immovable object which hadn’t conceded any goals in the League so far. But the ease with which Real Madrid carved the visitors open proved that their defensive record was more down to their opponents being poor in front of goal, rather than them being particularly resolute.
Every time Barcelona relinquished possession, the home side looked dangerous on the counter attack. Although it was only 3-1, that was more down to profligate finishing on the part of Los Blancos rather than it being a solid defensive effort by the League leaders. In fact, aside from Javier Mascherano and Claudio Bravo, no one else looked comfortable in defence. The fact that none of the attackers pressed high up the pitch and there were defenders playing out of position didn’t help. but the simple fact is that the current Catalan defence is no better than the one from last season and their defensive record was one of those curious statistics, that wrongly makes them look good.