Two goals from Lionel Messi allowed Barcelona to secure a 4-2 victory at Tottenham and the Argentine is the predictable man of the match in our player ratings.
It was a strong display from the visitors and Messi had plenty of help. Find out who starred and struggled with our player ratings.
Barcelona (4-3-3)
Marc-Andre Ter Stegen – 6: Made a magnificent save from Lamela’s deflected cross in the first and had no chance with either Spurs goal.
Nelson Semedo – 6: A curious combination. Some excellent play on the ball and a threat going forward, but looked vulnerable defensively.
Gerard Pique – 6: Had some uncertain moments in line with his recent poor form but stood up to the challenge in the frantic latter stages.
Clement Lenglet – 6: Made a mistake in the build-up to Lamela’s goal, but compensated with a great late block on Moura. Generally solid.
Jordi Alba – 8: Great no-look pass for the opener and completed a hat-trick of assists by sliding precise passes for both of Messi’s goals.
Ivan Rakitic – 8: Rounded off an elegant performance with a spectacular volleyed goal, showcasing awesome technique to strike from distance.
Sergio Busquets – 8: Imperious in the centre of midfield, always finding the right pass despite often coming under heavy pressure.
Arthur – 8: A revelation. Rose to the occasion after a surprise inclusion with a good Xavi impression. Ran the show in the first hour.
Philippe Coutinho – 6: Tidy finish for the opener and had plenty of threatening moments but was often too hasty with his passing.
Lionel Messi – 10: Hit the post twice in three minutes and then got bored of that so decided to score. And then score again. Beyond words.
Luis Suarez – 7: Didn’t get on the scoresheet but worked like a Trojan all night and produced two selfless dummies to tee up Messi’s goals.
SUBS
Rafinha – 5: Came on for Coutinho near the end but barely had a touch, struggling to adjust to the pace of the game.
Arturo Vidal – 6: Added some muscle to the visiting midfield for the final few minutes as Spurs pressed for a leveller.
Thomas Vermaelen: Introduced at the death to deal with Llorente’s aerial threat and did what he had to.
