Back to the Soccer Newsfeed

Athletic Bilbao 'put us in our place', says Pique

Gerard Pique conceded Barcelona were deservedly beaten by Athletic Bilbao, saying the defending La Liga champions were 'put in our place' at San Mames.

A stunning overhead kick from veteran substitute striker Aritz Aduriz in the 89th minute snatched all three points for the home side in the opening Spanish top-flight match of 2019-20.

Barca hit the post through Luis Suarez - who went off injured in the first half with a muscle injury - and replacement Rafinha struck the crossbar, but they were largely lacklustre in attack without captain Lionel Messi, who is sidelined with a calf problem.