Barcelona's disappointing pre-season continued as they were beaten 2-1 by Fiorentina at the Artemio Franchi on Sunday
Fiorentina players celebrate Federico Bernardeschi's goal against Barcelona at Florence's Artemio Franchi Stadium on Sunday
Florence: Barcelona's disappointing pre-season continued as they were beaten 2-1 by Fiorentina at the Artemio Franchi on Sunday.
Fiorentina players celebrate Federico Bernardeschi's goal against Barcelona at Florence's Artemio Franchi Stadium on Sunday. Pic/AFP
Barca fell to their third loss in the International Champions Cup, nine days ahead of their UEFA Super Cup meeting against Sevilla, as youngster Federico Bernardeschi netted twice in the opening 12 minutes.
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After their shaky start, Barca — who were without superstars Lionel Messi and Neymar — slowly began to control proceedings but failed to find an equaliser after Luis Suarez had halved their deficit.
Defensive concerns
Chances fell to Pedro and Suarez as the European champions pressed, yet they were unable to find a way through, leaving Luis Enrique with plenty to ponder.
Barca's early defensive play will have worried their head coach as Bernardeschi was twice allowed to pounce on crosses from the right, giving Paulo Sousa an excellent start to his home debut as Fiorentina boss.
The young striker opened the scoring after four minutes with a well-placed header from a sumptuous Borja Valero cross.
Eight minutes later Joaquin found the 21-year-old unmarked 10 yards from goal and he again made no mistake with a cool, side-footed finish.
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