Barcelona needed a first La Liga goal from Memphis Depay to save a 1-1 draw at the Athletic Club in San Mamés.
The Catalan giants were pretty flat in the first half, as their attempts to pass through the middle of the field before moving out wide yielded little success. The game pattern became quite predictable, with Athletic eliminating all threats offered by livewires Depay and Pedri.
While Los Leones finished the first half the stronger of the two sides, they could not convert their holdings to create any clear chances. But five minutes after the break, Iñigo Martínez turned home Iker Muniain’s corner to give the hosts the lead.
That goal was the shock of the system that Barcelona needed, and they immediately started stroking the ball with more calm and serenity. This new energy inspired Frenkie de Jong to hit the crossbar shortly after, but the visitors would not be denied their equalizer.
Impressive pressure in the midfield eventually led to Sergi Roberto feeding the ball to Depay, who broke through on goal before firing a thunderous left-footed shot against the roof of Julen Agirrezabala’s goal.
“I really can not enjoy it too much because we did not get the three points.”
– @Memphis on his first official Barça goal pic.twitter.com/wPcCTzsn7P
– FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) 21 August 2021
Barça looked more likely to continue and win the game, but even if Depay had a good late chance, they did not do enough to take all three points.
This is how Barça’s players rated at night …
Barcelona fights for possession / Quality sports images / Getty Images
Net (GK) – 6/10 – Made a couple of saves but the Barcelona goalkeeper had a pretty quiet evening.
Sergino Dest (RB) – 6/10 – The young American was anxious to continue and help in the attack, but was equally vigilant for his defensive responsibilities.
Eric Garcia (CB) – 5/10 – The young Spaniard struggled to keep up with Iñaki Williams, and a difficult night was exacerbated by his red card in stoppage time.
Gerard Pique (CB) – 7/10 – Lasted only half an hour but showed his class with a number of interceptions.
Jordi Alba (LB) – 6/10 – Usually a threat going forward, Alba was often on his hind legs and could not bomb as he had wanted.
Frenkie de Jong was crucial for Barcelona on Saturday / Anadolu Agency / Getty Images
Sergio Busquets (DM) – 5/10 – Not the largest display from Busquets, which was characteristically captured a number of times.
Frenkie de Jong (CM) – 7/10 – After a lukewarm first half, De Jong warmed up and started managerial processes in midfield. His display allowed Barça to gain the upper hand late.
Pedri (CM) – 6/10 – Game number 76 381 in Pedri’s young career was lively enough, but Athletic’s physique dampened his attacking style as the game progressed. Subbed on the hour.
Memphis Depay celebrates its receipt / Soccrates Images / Getty Images
Antoine Griezmann (RW) – 6/10 – A little strange appearance from Griezmann, who was positional throughout the store. Pushed in from the flank and strangely enough came in the role number six far too often.
Martin Braithwaite (ST) – 6/10 – The Dane’s lack of chemistry with Griezmann and Depay was obvious. A flat display.Memphis Depay (LW) – 8/10 – The new recruit from Lyon was electric in the second half, which caused Athletic problems with his pace and movement. Earned his goal and came within a whirlwind of earning all three points.
Sergi Roberto plays a pass / Soccrates Images / Getty Images
Ronald Araújo (CB) – 6/10 – Took into the week early after Pique hobbled off and did well on the big picture. Was separated from Garcia sometimes but went well.
Sergi Roberto (CM) – 7/10 – Helped Barcelona solve things after replacing the tired Pedri. Assisted Depay’s receipt.
Yusuf Demir (ST) – 6/10Emerson (RB) – N / A
