Barcelona put in its place at Athletic Bilbao - Gerard Pique
The HinduGerard Pique conceded Barcelona was deservedly beaten by Athletic Bilbao, saying the defending LaLiga champion was "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 LaLiga match of 2019-20. READ | Aduriz downs Barcelona in La Liga opener 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. The result is likely to see pressure again begin to mount on head coach Ernesto Valverde, who came under fire at the end of last season for Barca's Champions League capitulation against Liverpool, as well as the Copa del Rey final loss to Valencia, although they retained the league title.