Barcelona’s 100 percent start to the Liga season came to an abrupt end as Celta Vigo inflicted a sensational – and well deserved – 4-1 defeat on the Spanish and European champions.
After fielding something of an experimental side in the weekend’s win over Levante, Luis Enrique opted for a full-strength lineup at the Balaidos. However, Celta Vigo dominated the contest – particularly in the opening 45 minutes – taking a well-earned and fully warranted 2-0 lead into the half-time break.
Barcelona’s second half resurgence never materialised, with the former Liverpool striker Iago Aspas bagging his second on a breakaway counter attack. Neymar gave the Catalans a lifeline with 10 minutes left to play, but John Guidetti netted a fourth to complete a chastening night for the champions.
The result means Real Madrid can join Celta Vigo at the top of La Liga with a win against Athletic Bilbao – as Barca and Atletico Madrid trail – with Enrique’s side continuing to struggle for traction in the opening few weeks of the season.