Xavi and team not satisfied with Galatasaray stalemate

On Thursday night, Barcelona couldn’t break down a tenacious Galatasaray in the first leg of their Europa League Round of 16 clash. Gala left Spain with a 0-0 draw from the first-leg of their round 16 tie.

Xavi said, “Given that we were playing at home, this isn’t a good result. In the second half we were a little bit better, but when you drop intensity things get a bit more even between the teams.

The Blaugrana would have wanted to capitalise on their home advantage ahead of a difficult journey to Turkey next week, but they were unable to do so.

Xavi Hernandez used the chance to rest many key players, however Gerard Pique – who had been nursing a minor injury – and Ousmane Dembélé were introduced as early as half time.

Without Sergio Busquets, who came off the bench, Barcelona struggled to break down a tenacious Galatasary, who had their own opportunities.

In the first half, Galatasaray goalkeeper Inaki Pena, who is on loan from Barcelona, made two spectacular saves to deny Memphis Depay.

Apart from that, Barcelona struggled to generate enough offence, particularly in the second half, and they now have the daunting job of travelling to Turkey needing to win.

Galatasaray will be relieved to take a point home, and they deserved it after a great defensive performance and a couple of spectacular breakaway.

In fact, it wasn’t the most fascinating game, and we’ll undoubtedly see a bit more of both teams’ finished product when they meet for the second leg and finale next Thursday.