Getafe 0-0 Barcelona: Scoring the players, 2 red cards ‘ruined’ Barcelona’s opening match

Barcelona’s struggles at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez continued, as a very scrappy game ended in a 0-0 draw and Barcelona stumbled in their La Liga season opener, with more fouls than clear chances created.

Although resolute in defending, Getafe’s stubborn low-block and physical style of play got under the Catalans’ skin, and a first-half red card for Raphinha meant the Blaugrana got off to a shaky start to their title defence in 2023/24.

Barcelona’s struggles away to Getafe continued, as they still await a win at the Coliseum since their victory in September 2019, when Ernesto Valverde was still in the dugout.

Here are Barcelona players’ individual performances rated from a frustrating game, with a whole lot of controversy throughout – especially at the end where the Catalans were denied a penalty that is sure to grab headlines in coming hours.

Marc Andre ter Stegen: 6.5/10

Was called upon into a few routine stops, but was largely unbothered and didn’t put a foot wrong.

Ronald Araujo: 7/10

Started on the right side of the defence and had a few comical moments – one where he was fortunate to escape a booking in the first half after catching a pass with his hands.

However, the Uruguayan was solid in defence and bombed down the right flank on a few good runs once he had the flank open after Raphinha’s dismissal.

Jules Kounde: 7.5/10

Deployed once more in his preferred central defensive position, he looked at home and was again solid at snuffing out danger and made some good progressive passes, important recoveries and won his aerial duels.

Andreas Christensen: 7/10

Returned after a spell on the sidelines with injury issues, but slotted back into the side seamlessly. Marshalled the defence and was astute as ever with his distribution.

A much-needed boost to the backline. (Photo by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images)

Alejandro Balde: 7/10

Another proactive performance by Balde, as he sought to create danger down the left remained a constant threat down the left flank, unfortunately, not to much avail. Also tracked back diligently and made some great recoveries.

Pedri: 7.5/10

Sensible, solid and in control – Pedri typified his time as a Barcelona player with another assured midfield display, constantly trying to pull the strings, circulating possession well and playing some delicate passes over the top of Getafe’s deep block.

Oriol Romeu: 6/10

Romeu’s first official game for the Catalans was a scrapfest, with the Spaniard unable to control the midfield as he did in the friendlies before this, but didn’t particularly put a foot wrong.

Frenkie de Jong: 7.5/10

Forced to slot in between the centre-backs to make up for Barcelona’s man disadvantage in the second half, but he was solid on the ball and confidently made some striding runs into midfield, while also being available to clear in the box.

Ilkay Gundogan: 5.5/10

Made his much-awaited official debut for the Blaugrana, and was at the receiving end of some very rash challenges and was overall unable to make much of an impact.

Raphinha: 2/10

After showing signs of threat early on, Raphinha’s outing quickly dwindled as the Brazilian followed up missing a gilt-edged chance by getting booked for dissent and then a completely unnecessary elbow Gaston Alvarez got him sent off.

Robert Lewandowski: 4/10

A very frustrating game for the Polish veteran, who did not have any impact on the game, going down softly on a number of occasions. Failed to link up with his teammates as well.

A disappointing outing. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)

SUBSTITUTES

Ansu Fati: 6/10

Brought more liveliness up top, and got into some promising positions. Could have scored to give the Catalans the lead right after coming on, but encouraging signs from the youngster.

Ansu Fati | 2022/2023 player page | Forward | FC Barcelona Official website

Gavi: 5.5/10

A few good sequences on the ball, but got booked late in stoppage time. Involved in the late penalty drama but also made a crucial recovery at the end which potentially earned them the draw.

Mediocre' Gavi Is 'Not FC Barcelona Level': Ex-Presidential Candidate

Ez Abde: 6.5/10

A bright cameo after coming on at half-time, as he constantly ran at the Getafe defence and tried to create danger in their box, alas, to no avail. But a definite bright point for the Catalans.

Lamine Yamal: 6/10

Another short cameo where the teenager showed good impetus, almost assisting Ansu Fati right after coming on with a great ball. Didn’t seem to back down and looked willing to take on his man.

What did you think of thi