A Messi-less Barcelona far from their best
Barcelona secured the three points they wanted, but it was more difficult than the fans would have expected. Luis Enrique’s men were heavy favourites for the Camp Nou clash against Roger Schmidt’s men.
However, the champions of Europe did not commence the match in the manner they would have hoped to. They were outplayed in the first half and only had a few look-ins at the Leverkusen goal.
Neymar did not seem to help proceedings when he was cautioned for simulation, but the young Brazilian was close to making amends for his foolishness when he produced a dazzling piece of skill before sliding a slow shot into the post.
Throughout the duration of the match, centre-back pairing Javier Mascherano and Gerard Pique shut down many Leverkusen attacks, but there were too many occasions where they were beaten easily.
Nonetheless, it was a fantastic comeback from the Catalans with two vital late goals, one from Sergi Roberto and a brilliant thunderbolt from Luis Suarez. Despite the victory and the absence of superstar Lionel Messi, the Camp Nou outfit still need to improve enormously.
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