New faces but same old story for Barcelona

MADRID: Barcelona threw away two vital points in a 1-1 home draw with Racing Santander on Saturday as the Spanish giant slumped to its worst league start in 35 years.

Argentine winger Lionel Messi converted a 70th-minute penalty, but Barca failed to take advantage with Jonathan Pereira equalizing six minutes later to deny the host victory.

One point from six is a woeful start for coach Pep Guardiola who will expect better when Barcelona start its Champions League campaign on Tuesday with a home match against Sporting Lisbon.