Osasuna downed by Racing, but plan to upset Barca

PFDC – PAMPLONA, Osasuna suffered yet another bitter defeat, failing to hold on to a 1-0 lead at home and eventually losing 1-3 to Racing Santander in La Liga on Sunday.

The hosts took an early lead, also thanks to Masoud Shojaei’s good overview. The Iranian international perfectly inscened Juanfran, who’s cross was met by Flano, who made it 1-0.

But goals in the 34th, 50th and 88th minute respectively remained unanswered by the Basques, who can slowly start to bid farewell to their UEFA Euro League ambitions.

Both Javad Nekounam and Masoud Shojaei played the full 90 minutes. While Nekounam had an average performance, Shojaei started out very well, but declined until the final whistle.

Osasuna now have to travel to Camp Nou to face mighty FC Barcelona on Wednesday. According to Spanish sports media, both Iranian players again will make the starting lineup. Whereas Nekounam as usually will play in central defensive midfield, Shojaei is supposed to start as sole centre forward.