Luis Enrique’s Barcelona side made a big statement to their La Liga rivals with a 6-1 victory against Sporting Gijon on Wednesday at the Camp Nou. It was total domination from the beginning and the win will really change the mood in the Barcelona camp for the final few games of the season.
Barcelona Payer Ratings
Marc Andre Ter Stegen – 6/10
Made a few fine saves in each half of the game but was unable do anything about the Sporting goal. A good confident show overall.
Jordi Alba – 6/10
Pacey and energetic down the left hand side in attack and defense, made a superb block to deny Castro a second goal.
Javier Mascherano – 7/10
Was good with his passing distribution at the back, set up Messi’s goal with a lovely lofted pass and was also solid at the back when required.
Samuel Umtiti – 6/10
Should have done better in helping Barcelona keep a clean sheet and not allowing Sporting to score as he was caught flat footed on the attack. However, he improved in the second half and dealt with things better.
Denis Suarez – 7/10
A good show by the young midfielder who controlled the tempo of the game well and linked up with the forwards. He created many opportunities for the attackers with his sublime passing skills.
Sergio Busquets – 5/10
The Spanish midfielder has not been his usual self of late and once again had a night to forget. He was not at his best when it came to distributing the ball and did not track the runs of the opposition when they broke away. He was slow in covering the ground as well.
Rafinha – 6/10
Initially had a few problems defensively as he allowed Burgui a bit of space on his side of the field but improved later on and linked up well with the front three, better as the game progressed.
Ivan Rakitic – 7/10
Had a steady performance and was attack minded throughout the game. He was creative in attack and was a threat for the Gijon defense. Got his late goal and rounded things off to end a good night for Barcelona.
Lionel Messi – 9/10
Opened the scoring with a beautiful looping header after timing his run to perfection. Created many chances and looked to be back at his best. Also claimed the assist for Alcacer’s goal.
Neymar – 9/10
The Brazilian was outstanding once again as he twisted and turned the Gijon defence with his impressive footwork and skill. His passing was sublime as usual as he let Suarez in for the second goal. Got his goal with a brilliant free-kick in the second period.
Luis Suarez – 9/10
Scored a stunning volley which he executed perfectly. Created nuisance in front of the Gijon goal as he forced an error from Rodriguez for Barca’s second. Predatory as usual.
Substitutes-
Andre Gomes – 6/10
Replaced Messi in the centre of the pitch and continued the free-flowing football his side played.
Sergi Roberto – 7/10
Set up Rakitic for his goal with a neat pass and looked good for the few minutes he was on.
Paco Alcacer – 7/10
Got his goal after latching on to Messi’s pass. He replaced Suarez and was lively and energetic in attack.