Match Report: Away loss to FC Barcelona (3-1)

Valencia CF returned to action following the international break with a visit to the Camp Nou, playing FC Barcelona on Matchday 9 of the LaLiga season. The game ended in a 3-1 defeat for José Bordalás' men, who put in a spirited performance before the home team came back from behind.

The team had a strong start to the game, looking to hit FC Barcelona on the break. José Luis Gayà did just that, putting his side in front just four minutes into the first half with a curling slow strike past opposition goalkeeper Marc-André Ter Stegen.

Valencia CF defended resolutely after the goal, well organised at the back and looking to race forward at every opportunity. However, their lead would not last, as Ansu Fati made it 1-1 with a Barça equaliser before the quarter-hour-mark.

The contest then went through a cagey spell, with Valencia CF absorbing pressure. Once again, they relied on defensive stability to deny the home team.

However, things took a turn for the worse as the referee awarded the opposition a penalty kick, for a challenge by Gayà on Ansu Fati. Memphis Depay made it 2-1 to the opposition from the spot.

Valencia CF trailed FC Barcelona at halftime, with all to play for in the second half. 

The second half started at high tempo at both ends with Jasper Cillessen pulling off a sensational stop to deny Ansu Fati and minutes later, Carlos Soler rattling the post at the other end with a powerful drive.

Gonçalo Guedes forced Mark Andre Ter Stegen into a one-handed save at full stretch with a potent drive after a fine pass from Gabriel Paulista just under the hour mark.

Valencia CF upped the ante in the closing stages as the game opened up with chances for either side. Philip Coutinho made it 3-1 to FC Barcelona and Valencia CF fell to a defeat away to FC Barcelona.

Valencia CF will try to return to winning ways at home against RCD Mallorca on Saturday, 23rd of October at 2 pm kick-off time on Matchday 10 of LaLiga.    

Match Details:
 

3. FC BARCELONA: Ter Stegen, Sergi Roberto (Mingueza, 71 '), Piqué, Eric García, Jordi Alba, De Jong, Busquets, Gavi (Nico, 71'), Dest (Kun Agüero, 86 '), Ansu Fati ( Coutinho, 59 ') and Memphis.

1. VALENCIA CF: Cillessen, Foulquier (Yunus Musah, 75 '), Gabriel Paulista, Diakhaby, Gayà, Wass, Hugo Guillamón (Manu Vallejo, 87'), Carlos Soler, Hugo Duro (Marcos André, 60 '), Guedes ( Cheryshev, 75 ') and Maxi Gómez.

GOALS: 0-1 Gayà, 4 '; 1-1 Ansu Fati, 12 '; 2-1 Memphis, 41 '; 3-1 Coutinho, 85 '.

REFEREE: Gil Manzano. Booked Gavi, Busquets, Gayà, Foulquier and Maxi Gómez.

VAR: Munuera Montero (C. Andaluz).

 Observations: LaLiga Matchday 9 played at the Camp Nou (Barcelona).