Individual errors and some quite simply brilliant play from Lionel Messi ended Manchester United‘s Champions League dreams as Barcelona enjoyed a convincing 3-0 win at the Camp Nou on Tuesday night.
Messi got the breakthrough in the 16th minute to put his side firmly in the driving seat of the quarter-final second leg before a howler from David De Gea handed him a second four minutes later.
Philippe Coutinho’s effort from range on the hour mark sealed progress to the semi-finals for the Catalans with a 4-0 aggregate score.
Here, we analyse Ernesto Valverde’s tactical input.
BASIC STATS
Goals – 3
Shots – 13
Shots on target – 6
Goals conceded – 0
Possession – 66%
Dribbles – 14
Tackles – 16
Lionel Messi has scored more Champions League goals against English clubs than any other player in #UCL history:
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) April 16, 2019
9 vs. Arsenal
6 vs. Man City
4 vs. Man Utd
3 vs. Chelsea
2 vs. Spurs
Just waiting to add Liverpool now... pic.twitter.com/8EqgWgb1Hk
TACTICAL TALKING POINT
Busquets role
With Messi in the form that he was in on the night, it’s only natural that he would take all the plaudits. Whatever spotlight remains would undoubtedly be fixated on United’s glaring individual errors and general lack of quality. Spare a thought for Sergio Busquets though who almost single-handedly got Barca to settle down after a shaky start.
The experienced holding midfielder was made to sit a lot deeper after United’s early pressing and threat in the transition. He did that expertly, slotting in between the two centre-backs and helping Barca play their way out of danger. As the game wore on, that became a position of strength for the hosts. The Spaniard was critical to their build-up play, often leaving United’s forwards chasing shadows.
GOT RIGHT
Targeting United’s right side
As Barcelona increasingly gained control of the game, they started to target the right side of United’s defence, a ploy that was particularly noticeable after half-time. Especially after winning possession, their immediate passes were directed at finding either Coutinho or Jordi Alba. The duo threatened on a couple of occasions before linking up for Barca’s third.
VERDICT
Valverde did what has come to be expected of him. His 4-4-2 system is tailor-made for Messi to run the show and run the show he did. The tactician must be credited for the subtle tweaks he is known to make during games which help his side along their way. Has to be said that he benefited hugely from United’s own errors though, ultimately making things rather simple for him.
Rating 7/10
