VIDEO Celta Vigo 4-1 Barcelona: Highlights, Goals, As Celta Shock Barca Behind Iago Aspas
In one of the most surprising results of the season, undefeated Celta Vigo pounded defending champions Barcelona, 4-1, on Wednesday night behind two goals from Iago Aspas at Estadio Balaidos. It was the first loss for Luis Enrique's squad this season.
Celta Vigo also received goals from Nolito, which was a thing of beauty, in the 26th minute, and John Guidetti in the 83rd minute. Neymar scored in the 80th minute for the Catalans.
After 30 minutes, Celta Vigo had a 2-0 lead and never looked back. Aspas' second goal came on a counter attack where he easily beat goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
It was a case of missed opportunities for Barcelona. In the 10th minute, Andres Iniesta fed Lionel Messi on the left side. But the Argentine star had his blistering left-footed shot blocked by goalkeeper Sergio Alvarez. Messi had also hit the woodwork in the early going.
Barca didn't thoroughly dominate the possession game, as they usually do, controlling the ball for just 56 percent of the match. Both clubs took 18 shots, with Barcelona putting seven on target, while Vigo put five on goal.
Enrique was forced to use a makeshift lineup. Jeremy Mathieu started at left back for Barcelona, and Sergi Roberto got the nod in midfield. In the 58th minute, Munir El Haddadi subbed on for Roberto. Sandro Ramírez, Jordi Alba, Thomas Vermaelen, Rafinha, and Claudio Bravo were all unavailable for Barcelona.
Up next for Celta Vigo is a road match against Eiber on Saturday, while Barcelona host Las Palmas.
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