Well then... that was fun for 45 minutes. Like, really fun.
The first half at Balaidos saw Barca back to doing what they do best. Opening up the pitch, keeping the ball for long periods, accurate passing and first-class execution.
It was, frankly, an absolute joy to watch after the rubbish we’ve been consistently served up during the Ronald Koeman era.
The injuries to Ansu and Nico are lamentable, particularly with Xavi waiting in the wings, ready to shape those two, and Barca’s other youngsters, into players the club will be proud of. Or should that be more proud of.