Barcelona 2-1 Getafe: 5 Talking Points | LaLiga 2019/2020

#2 Even in defeat, Getafe can leave with their heads held high

Jose Bordalas could help Getafe qualify for the Champions League

Just four years ago, Getafe were floundering in the doldrums of the Spanish second division and were second-bottom when Jose Bordalas was appointed in 2016.

They managed to secure top-flight promotion through the playoff and achieved a record-high 8th position in their first season back in LaLiga.

Last term, they narrowly lost a top-four place on the last day and anyone who was thinking their performance was down to luck has been in for a rude shock, as they have continued from where they left off this season.

They impressively topped their Europa League group and currently find themselves in third spot on the standings, firmly poised for a maiden Champions League qualification.

Their gameplan is built around a dedicated group of players committed to their coach's high pressing demands and while their physicality and negative style of play might put people off, a cursory look at the table would reveal that it has been very effective.

Getafe came out of the blocks flying against Barcelona and for much of the first half were in the ascendancy, with the hosts struggling to contain their press and implement their usual free-flowing football.

Every time Ter Stegen had the ball in his area, there were always at least five Getafe players within his vicinity, with two closely marking Gerard Pique and Samuel Umtiti, while another pair blocked off his access to the full-backs.

The best chances of the early period were also fashioned by the visitors, with Jorge Molina fluffing his line when played through on goal, while Marc Cucurella narrowly flashed wide from the edge of the area.

They also put the ball in the back of the net when Allan Nyom headed from a corner but VAR reviews showed that he had elbowed Umtiti in the buildup and the goal was rightly disallowed.

Even in defeat, Getafe were able to match their more illustrious opponents for much of the match and showed that they are fully deserving of their spot on the league table.