First Barcelona defeat for Quique Setien as LaLiga title hopes take a hit in Valencia

Maxi Gomez struck twice and also saw a penalty saved as Valencia spoiled Quique Setien’s first away game in LaLiga as Barcelona coach with an impressive 2-0 win at Mestalla.

With Frenkie de Jong back from suspension and Arthur in the line-up following his recent injury problems, Barca dominated the possession of the ball early on against a Valencia team missing their best midfielder, Dani Parejo, because of a ban.

But in their very first foray forward, Albert Celades’ side won a penalty as Gerard Pique was adjudged to have brought down Jose Luis Gaya.

Maxi stepped up, but was denied by Marc-Andre ter Stegen as the German goalkeeper flew across to his left and parried the Uruguayan’s fierce shot.

(AFP via Getty Images)

Barca had most of the ball for the remainder of the half, but Setien’s side created little in terms of clear chances and the two teams went in level at the break.

Shortly after the restart, Valencia went ahead when Maxi hit a powerful shot towards goal from the right side of the area and saw his effort rebound off Jordi Alba and in, wrong-footing Ter Stegen on its way into the back of the net. The strike may even go down as an own goal.

(AP)

Setien sent on Arturo Vidal for Arthur and Barca immediately looked more dangerous with the Chilean on the pitch.

Lionel Messi went close with an exquisite chip from the edge of the area and also a header at the far post following a cross from Antoine Griezmann.

At that point, a Barca goal looked like a matter of time, but Valencia attacked on the break with 13 minutes remaining and Ferran Torres squared for Maxi. who was all alone in space and drove the ball into the corner from just inside the area.

Valencia later saw a goal ruled out for what looked like a foul from a corner as Gabriel Paulista volleyed in and for a moment, it appeared as if the referee had given Celades’ side a penalty.

But it was only a corner in the end and after Messi went close with a couple of efforts in stoppage time, the home fans met the final whistle with huge cheers.

(REUTERS)

Barca remain top, but will be overtaken by Real Madrid if Los Blancos avoid defeat in Valladolid on Sunday. Valencia, meanwhile, climb to fifth place.

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