Lionel Messi v Valencia: Analysis of how the Barcelona legend fared at the Mestalla

Messi had a perfectly good goal chalked off after 30 minutes when his drive from the edge of the area was fumbled by Valencia goalkeeper Neto, with TV replays showing the ball clearly crossed the line. But since goal-line technology is not available to officials in LaLiga, Valencia were let off the hook.

ATTACKING THREAT

Messi found his opportunities limited against a well-organised Valencia defence in the first half but did cause a few scares when he ran in behind, with his speed and trickery making him a handful. But in the second half, Messi’s superb ball into the box was turned into the net by Jordi Alba as Barca found a late equaliser.

LINK-UP PLAY

There were a few neat one-twos with Andres Iniesta as Messi was involved in some of Barca’s best build-up play in both halves. But the 30-year-old was guilty of a number of sloppy passes which saw Valencia win back possession when they were 1-0 up.

POSITIONING

Messi spent a fair amount of time in the middle of the park, looking to carry the ball forward using his pace and skill. But he did cause problems on the few occasions he managed to work his way into the box.