Goals from Nelson Semedo and Lionel Messi helped Barcelona to a 2-0 victory in a tricky away fixture against 10-man Girona on Sunday.
The La Liga giants took the lead through full-back Semedo in the ninth minute but the hosts then had plenty of chances of their own to equalise.
Bernardo Espinosa’s sending off for a second yellow card in the 51st minute ended the match as a contest as Barca proceeded to dominate.
Messi added the second with a delightful finish and the visitors could’ve scored more but for some poor finishing.
Here, we look at the performances of the Barca players.
STARTING XI (4-3-3)
Marc-Andre ter Stegen – Not always convincing when coming off his line to claim crosses but made some great saves, particularly against Cristhian Stuani. 7
Nelson Semedo – Was targeted by Valery Fernandez who got past him to whip in crosses. Scored the opener with a good snapshot. 6
Gerard Pique – Massive clearance off the line to deny Pere Pons with Ter Stegen beaten. Defended well. 6
Clement Lenglet – Picked up a booking for a cynical foul to end a Girona counter. Made some good interventions but also struggled against crosses. 5
Jordi Alba – Slight tug on Stuani’s shirt could’ve led to a penalty. Got forward well and laid the second on a plate for Messi. 7
Arturo Vidal – Another forgettable display. The game seemed to pass him by. Only noteworthy action was being booked for a foul on the halfway line and was substituted before the hour mark. 3
Sergio Busquets – Quietly went about his business for the most part but booked for a series of fouls. Made a stunning block to thwart Stuani. 6
Ivan Rakitic – Forced a save from Yassine Bounou with a shot from range and set up Suarez on one occasion. Kept the ball well and was integral in the build-up play. 6
Lionel Messi – Fairly quiet for most of the game by his standards. Disappointed from free-kicks in good areas but still carved the opposition’s defence open on a few occasions. Set up Coutinho and Suarez with chances well before chipping the keeper for the second. 8
Luis Suarez – Ran his socks off but when Messi and Rakitic presented him with glorious opportunities, he couldn’t capitalise. Created the chance for the second by playing Alba in. 6
Philippe Coutinho – Really should’ve scored when played clean through by Messi. After going one-on-one with the keeper again, he rounded him but couldn’t beat the man on the line. Another disappointing showing. 4
SUBS
Arthur (58′) – Brought more zip and purpose to Barca’s passing when he replaced Vidal. 6
Thomas Vermaelen (77′) – Came on for Lenglet to see the game out. N/A
Sergi Roberto (82′) – Introduced for Busquets in the final few minutes. N/A
