Half-Time Report: Two penalties put Barcelona ahead

Barcelona converted two penalties to take a 2-0 lead in the first half against Granada in La Liga this afternoon.

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Alexis Sanchez looked to get the home side off to a quick start with a long-range effort inside the opening two minutes, but it was comfortably saved, while Andres Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas also had efforts in the first 10 minutes of the match.

Jeison Murillo and Piti both tried efforts from range, but the visitors struggled to penetrate the Barcelona half.

The La Liga leaders had a chance to take the lead in the 20th minutes when Fabregas was tripped in the box by Pape Diakhate, allowing Iniesta to convert from the spot.

Piti had a chance to level 10 minutes later, attempting to drill the ball in from 25 yards out, but Jose Manuel Pinto was able to keep the strike out.

Fabregas was able to double Barcelona's lead shortly before half time, as Iniesta was fouled inside the box by Fran Rico, giving the hosts their second spot kick of the game.