In a dramatic showdown of Getafe vs Barcelona, Xavi, Raphinha both bagged red cards as the Spanish giants embarked on their title defense at a venue where they’ve historically struggled.
This time was no exception, as the match ended in a goalless draw accompanied by a flurry of three red cards.
The first half was marred by tension and an atmosphere rife with anger.
Raphinha found himself issued a straight red card for elbowing an opponent, leaving Barcelona struggling to breach Getafe’s resolute defense.
???? Red card for Raphinha
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 13, 2023
Even Xavi, the head coach, found himself being shown a red card.
How Raphinha got red-carded
The initial 45 minutes at Coliseum Alfonso Perez concluded without any goals, as both Barcelona and Getafe vied for a breakthrough.
Getafe’s steadfast and calculated approach held strong, ultimately leading to Raphinha’s retaliatory action and subsequent red card for elbowing Gaston Alvarez.
In a heated moment shortly before halftime, Alvarez bore the brunt of Raphinha’s elbow, compelling the referee to brandish the red card.
After participating in 312 football matches throughout his career, Raphinha’s streak of avoiding red cards came to an end.
Despite commanding over 75 percent of possession, Barcelona only managed two additional shots compared to Getafe’s tally during the first half.
The visitors found themselves facing an uphill battle with numerical disadvantage, though both teams aimed for greater clinical precision after the break.
Getafe joins the party
Unfortunately, a mere 12 minutes into the second half, Getafe also suffered a player ejection, reducing both sides to 10 players.
Mata received his marching orders after a late challenge on Araujo, resulting in a second yellow card from the referee.
Xavi wasn’t left out
Barcelona continued to apply pressure on the home team, only to witness yet another red card. This time, Xavi found himself ejected from the game.
The Barca head coach’s fury erupted when Ezzalzouli was contested on the edge of the penalty area, engaging in a shoulder-to-shoulder clash with the assistant on the touchline.
The referee intervened, banishing Xavi to the sidelines.
???? Straight red card to our coach, Xavi Hernández
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 13, 2023
Despite an extra 16 minutes of gameplay, the encounter remained goalless, delivering a thoroughly captivating battle.
Both teams suffered red card ejections, with Xavi joining the ranks of those dismissed for his impassioned protests.
Indubitably, Barcelona’s struggles persisted, having failed to secure a victory or even score a goal in their last four visits to Getafe in LaLiga, painting a dramatic and gripping narrative under the nightfall.
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