Sporting Gijon vs. Barcelona: Barca Continues Recent Sleepwalking Pattern

Barcelona put forth a lackluster effort, but they still managed to pull out a 1-0 win. Still, this is a Barca team that should be dismantling Sporting Gijon—not squeaking out a one goal victory. This match continues a recent trend established by Barca that they will play down to their opponents.

Everything you need to know about the talent advantage of Barca can be found in the following quote by Barcelona coach Manolo Preciado. Preciado, as quoted on espnstar.com:

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"We have to do everything well and hope Messi and company don't have their best day."

"That is all we can do. I've spent all week telling the team that 'this is a game to enjoy'."

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They did more than enjoy it; they almost came away with a point. Adriano had a goal in the 12th minute, and that was the all the scoring for the day.

Recent Sleepwalking Pattern

The month of September was filled with lackluster efforts by Barcelona. Oddly they were all 2-2 draws. They had those draws against Valencia on Sept. 21, AC Milan on Sept.13 and Real Sociedad on Sept. 10.

The draw against Milan probably doesn't need to be classified as a sleepwalking effort. Milan is a very good team, but there is no denying the other two. And now you can Sporting to the list.

What is Next for Barcelona

Barcelona will next take the pitch in a La Liga match vs. Racing Santander. This match is at Camp Nou and should be one Barcelona wins easily. This will be an excellent opportunity for them to shed that sleepwalking propensity.