FC Barcelona were held to a surprising 0-0 draw in the Champions League at home by Slavia Prague on Tuesday night.

It is the first time in 45 games that Barca have failed to score in front of their fans since they drew 0-0 with Getafe on February 11, 2018.

Slavia goalkeeper Odrej Kolar played brilliantly by denying Leo Messi on three occasions, as well as producing good saves to deny Nelson Semedo, Sergi Roberto and Gerard Pique, who will miss Barca's next Champions League tie at home to Borussia Dortmund after picking up a booking that means he is suspended.

Arturo Vidal did get the ball into the Slavia net, but the goal was ruled out for offside from Leo Messi, who was also unlucky to see the ball bounce back off the woodwork.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde replaced the injured Luis Suarez with Ousmane Dembele, but the Frenchman produced another disappointing performance and was replaced by Ansu Fati in the second half.

Barca also suffered another injury setback when Jordi Alba was forced out of the game at halftime with what looked like another muscle injury.

Valverde's side controlled most of the ball, but were unable to break down a well-organized side, that played with their midfield and defense close to each other, leaving little space for Barca to find the final pass.

Meanwhile, the side from the Czech Republic also looked to catch Barca on the break whenever they had the chance and also had the ball in the net through Jan Boril, although the goal was also ruled out for offside.

The draw leaves Barca with eight points from their four group games, which have not assured their place in the knockout stage.

The result also does little to dispel the feeling of Barca fans following the 3-1 defeat away to Levante on Saturday afternoon. 

Related

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)