Rodri sets the tempo in Barcelona’s comfortable win

Barcelona extended their perfect start to the La Liga campaign to eight wins with a 3-0 victory over Getafe at Camp Nou on Saturday. Rodri produced a commanding display in midfield, completing 121 of his 126 attempted passes, according to the statistician Nil Sola. That was 15 more completed passes than the entire Getafe starting XI managed, with the visitors recording 106.

The deep-lying midfielder was described in post-match player ratings as physically and technically dominant, covering ground and controlling the match. Barcelona’s goals came from Anthony Gordon, Gabriel Jesus and Jules Kounde. Gordon was credited with an energetic performance on the wing, while Kounde earned particular praise for his work in defence and for adding a goal.

Gordon and Kounde among the standout performers

Gordon received the highest rating in the player assessment after scoring and threatening repeatedly. Eric Garcia was also praised for his recovery runs and for supplying the pass that set up Gordon’s opener. Kounde’s performance at right-back was highlighted as a return to his best, although the review noted one missed close-range chance.

Barcelona’s victory was achieved with several changes to the starting line-up. Pedri made a positive impact after coming on, while Gavi was judged to have looked rusty as he worked his way into the contest. Getafe, meanwhile, struggled to match Barcelona’s control of possession or passing volume.

Sources: player ratings and match assessment from Barca Blaugranes; passing figures and match account from Get Spanish Football News.