Hansi Flick explains why Barcelona struggled in first-half of Osasuna clash

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick analysed the fault in their first-half performance during the victory against Osasuna, explaining that they played slowly in the opening 45 minutes. 

As Pulse Sports reported, the Blaugrana extended their league lead with a 2-0 win against Osasuna through a Raphinha brace. The match was cagey, and the champions had to wait until the 70th minute to get their first goal. 

Speaking after the game, Flick explained that their speed of play in the first half was below par, citing that as the reason for struggling to break down Osasuna’s back five and goalkeeper, Ander Herrera. 

“We dominated the match, and I think our play was dynamic, but our speed with the ball in the first half were not up to the required level,” Flick said, per Barca Times. 

“In the second half, the performance was much better. We continued circulating the ball from one side to the other, but with the dynamic we want to see. And I’m happy, because the most important thing today was securing the three points.”

Flick's comments reflect his honesty and insistence on maintaining a high standard. It continued the trend of his balanced list match comments, as after the victory against Frankfurt he had some criticisms for his players. 

Barcelona are currently seven points clear on the log, albeit temporarily, with Real Madrid playing Alaves on Sunday, with a chance to return the deficit to four.