Barcelona must learn quickly from Paris Saint-Germain defeat before Clasico

Barcelona’s 4-2 defeat by holders Paris Saint-Germain in Tuesday’s Champions League match exposed several areas for improvement before Sunday’s La Liga Clasico against Real Madrid.

Luis Enrique’s side produced a powerful attacking display at the Parc des Princes, while Barcelona suffered their first defeat of the season after making costly mistakes at different stages of the game.

The Spanish newspaper Marca identified six key issues behind the Catalan club’s loss.

Repeated possession errors

Barcelona’s inability to keep the ball was a major factor. Pedri lost possession three times in the opening five minutes, giving Paris Saint-Germain clear opportunities to attack.

After one of those mistakes, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia struck the post and forced Joan Garcia into his first two saves of the match. Two of Paris Saint-Germain’s goals also came after Barcelona lost the ball in midfield, with one mistake committed by Lamine Yamal.

If Barcelona are to challenge for the Champions League title, they cannot afford to surrender possession so frequently, particularly in such a dangerous area of the pitch.

Space for Paris Saint-Germain to exploit

Those errors allowed Paris Saint-Germain to create a succession of chances. Luis Enrique’s team managed 15 shots on target against Barcelona, a total no opponent had previously reached against them in the past decade.

Hansi Flick’s side must improve defensively and reduce the space available behind their back line if they are to make it more difficult for opponents to penetrate the penalty area.

Barcelona lacked precision

Barcelona showed their attacking quality by creating numerous chances, but they were not clinical enough in front of goal. Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Gordon were below their best, although Lamine did score an excellent goal.

Flick’s players attempted 18 shots in total, but only five were on target.

Failure to control the match

Barcelona also struggled to impose their preferred rhythm. Instead of controlling the contest, they became involved in an open exchange which ultimately favoured the French side.

There were periods in the second half when Barcelona dominated possession and managed to draw level, but they did not maintain the control required to keep the ball and dictate the game.

Rodri’s absence

The importance of Rodri was also highlighted. Although Flick has to manage his players’ workload with Real Madrid due to visit on Sunday, it was difficult to understand why the midfielder was left out of such an important match against Paris Saint-Germain.

The former Ballon d’Or winner’s presence appeared necessary. Barcelona missed him during the first half, when Pedri was unable to establish the required tempo. Rodri came on after the interval alongside Gavi, but neither player succeeded in providing the spark Barcelona needed.

Vulnerability from set-pieces

Barcelona’s defending at set-pieces was another concern. They conceded from a corner and failed to prevent Lucas Hernandez from heading in the second goal.

Paris Saint-Germain took advantage of a well-delivered set-piece to restore their lead at 2-1.