Barcelona saw off a spirited BATE Borisov side last night to extend their lead at the top of Group E in the Champions League.
Substitute Ivan Rakitic bagged both goals after the hosts surprisingly had held Barca goalless at halftime. The result leaves Luis Enrique’s men realistically only requiring one more victory to secure qualification to the knockout stages.
The reigning champions now sit atop the table on seven points, three clear of Bayer Leverkusen. BATE, meanwhile, sit in third in the group after the Germans and Roma played out an entertaining 4-4 draw.
Neymar turns creator
Having bagged himself a superb four goals in the league clash against Rayo Vallecano at the weekend, Neymar turned creator overnight by laying on both goals in Borisov. The Brazilian was instrumental in Barca eventually overcoming the resolute hosts, cutting inside from the left to supply Rakitic’s first and then picking out the Croatian in the box. He also nearly got on the scoresheet himself, but saw an excellent volley go narrowly wide.
Neymar is truly establishing himself as the go-to man in the continued absence of Lionel Messi. He is an increasingly influential player for the Blaugrana and the manner in which he has taken on the responsibility since Messi suffered his injury has been highly impressive.
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