Debut and a draw in Split (0-0)

23.07.2011 23:59  David R. Jover 

Barça drew against Hajduk Split in the first preseason game. Despite their clear superiority in terms of play, possession and chances, Guardiola’s team were unable to beat Subasic in the Hajduk goal. Villa, Soriano, and Jeffren had the best chances.

56 days after Wembley, Barça showed their style to the world once again. In the game to celebrate Hajduk Split’s centenary, Barça played seriously and gave everything, but couldn’t break through the web woven by the Croatian side, who have already started their league campaign, and are probably more match-fit. So, Guardiola remains unbeaten in preseason debuts.  

Thiago magic Thiago Alcantara was the most active player on the pitch in the first few minutes, creating danger with his running into space and precision passing. Thiago took the lead role in midfield, bringing his teammates into the game, and providing some great balls for David Villa, who had a few chances, and hit the post in the 16th minute with a superb strike from outside the area. 

Villa kept trying After failing to score with his first attempt, Villa had the chance to score Barça’s first goal of the season, a couple of times more. The first came in the 30th minute, when he came very close from a free-kick in a good position outside the box. In the 39th minute he tried the same thing again, but this time his shot hit the defensive wall and was easily dealt with. 

Eleven changes at half-time Coming in at the break 0-0, Pep Guardiola decided to bring on all eleven players from the bench. Despite the good work of the first 45 minutes, in the second half the team was totally different. Bringing on Riverola into midfield gave the team more depth, and this helped to gain even more possession of the ball.  
Jeffren and Soriano came close Jeffren and Jonathan Soriano had the best chances in the second half. Jeffren was very active for the whole half and his cut inside and cross-shot almost put Barça ahead. Jonathan Soriano also came really close and his shot, in the 64th minute, was centimetres outside the post. Barça played with their usual style, and created chances, but this time they just didn’t have any luck at all. 

Tuesday, second game 

Next Tuesday, 26th of July, at 18.15, Barça will have their second pre-season game, in the Audi Cup, against Internacional of Porto Alegre. It might be the opportunity to get their first win of the pre-season.