Getafe vs Barcelona preview - Fabregas: Getafe will make it difficult

Posted Saturday, September 15, 2012 by PA

Cesc Fabregas is confident Barcelona can continue their perfect start to the season but expects an out-and-out defensive performance by Getafe in their Primera Division clash.

Barca have won their opening three league games to sit top of La Liga at this early stage of the season and have already opened up a five-point gap over rivals Real Madrid.

The trip to Getafe marks Barca's return to the domestic league following the international break, but Fabregas is not concerned about their opponents' playing style - which traditionally does not suit his side.

"It's a difficult place to go," Fabregas told the club's official website. "They close down well with a 10-man defence and then counter-attack. They play their own game.

"Now they've got some good players, they've made some good signings. It's a small stadium with lots of pressure from the fans.

"It will be difficult but we're confident we can keep this run going."

Striker Alexis Sanchez (thigh) and central midfielder Andres Iniesta (hamstring) both miss out for Barcelona after they picked up injuries while on international duty. Coach Tito Vilanova will also serve the second game of his two-match touchline ban.

However, despite this, Fabregas believes Barcelona are not far off reaching their full potential.

"We had a good pre-season and we've already played five competitive matches," Fabregas said.

"We've gradually got into shape and the truth is that the team is looking good. We have two days to prepare the match together and next week the Champions League starts. "That helps you get going. Shortly, we'll be at 100%."

Getafe have no new injury worries ahead of the match and coach Luis Garcia has been preparing his side for a change in tactics.

Garcia told www.marca.com: "Although we like to have the ball, it will be Barcelona.

"We must try not to lose possession at any time. We must try to push them as high as possible, and try to make the play direct, closing down any balls that they do pass out."