IN SPORT.ES
Barcelona were held to a second successive La Liga draw on Sunday as they drew 0-0 against Getafe.
Ernesto Valverde’s side remain unbeaten in 23 league games this season but have seen their lead at the top cut to seven points by Atletico Madrid.
With Samuel Umtiti suspended, Thomas Vermaelen injured and Gerard Pique only fit enough for the bench, Valverde opted for Yerry Mina and Lucas Digne in the middle of his back four.
Mina was making his full debut after joining from Palmeiras in January, while Digne was shifted out of position.
Chances were few and far between in the first half and Barca failed to register a shot on target while Getafe occasionally posed a threat on the break.
Barca improved after the break and Vicente Guaita made two good saves from long range Philippe Coutinho efforts.
The Getafe goalkeeper also kept out a Lionel Messi effort and a Mina header.
Another Mina header, from an Ousmane Dembele corner, flashed just wide Guaita produced a finger tip save to deny Luis Suarez in stoppage time.
Getafe had their moments on the counter attack but it was their defensive organisation which impressed as they held on for a draw.
Valverde will look at the positives: Mina and Digne’s performance in defence; Dembele back from another injury; and another match unbeaten.
However, he will ultimately be disappointed to have dropped two points, which will now be stewed on for the next week as Barca have their first free week of the year.
They’re next in action on Saturday, when they travel to Eibar in La Liga.