Barcelona is one of the most successful football clubs in Europe and has consistently been considered one of the best teams in the world for its defensive prowess. However, with their recent struggles against rivals Real Madrid, they have come under scrutiny as to why they haven't been able to maintain their dominance.

One of the key reasons Barcelona has struggled defensively is their high number of conceded goals per match. In the past few seasons, the Catalan club has conceded more than 0.8 goals per match. This has not only led to them being second in terms of conceding goals but also causing concern among fans and analysts alike.

The main reason behind this decline in defensive performance can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, Barcelona's defenders have struggled to cope up with the intensity of attacking play. The team has relied heavily on defensive midfielders such as Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, and Gerard Piqué to defend the line, which has left little room for other players to attack.

Secondly, the team has been inconsistent in its approach to defending. While they have shown some good performances in recent matches, there have been instances where they have let down by conceding too many goals. Additionally, the team has struggled to adapt to changes in the game, which can result in the loss of concentration and momentum.

Another factor that has contributed to Barcelona's defensive weaknesses is the lack of physicality at the backline. While the team has been able to generate enough energy from its forwards, it has struggled to produce enough quality through the backline. This has made it difficult for the defense to contain the opposition effectively.

Furthermore, Barcelona has been criticized for its defensive strategy, which has often seen them playing in a 4-2-3-1 formation. This can leave the team exposed to counterattacks and allow opponents to create opportunities easily. However, this tactic has resulted in fewer chances for Barcelona to score goals.

In conclusion, while Barcelona has always been known for its defensive prowess, the team's recent struggles against rivals like Real Madrid are concerning. The club needs to address these issues if it wants to continue to excel in the sport. By improving its defensive skills, focusing on physical fitness, and adapting its tactics, Barcelona can regain its dominant position in European football.