News
TUE 23.02.2016
Arsenal started at an electric pace trying to unsettle Barcelona, and pushed the visitors back into their own area. The side placed third in the English Premier League had the best chance of a tight first period when Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain fired straight at Ter Stegen from close range after a swift counter-attack.
Luis Suarez nodded wide when well-placed just before the break as the Liga BBVA leaders slowly tightened their grip, but it wasn’t until early in the second half that they had their first effort on target. Neymar was put clear through on goal but the Brazilian failed to beat Petr Cech.
Ter Stegen made a spectacular goal-line save from an Olivier Giroud header on the hour mark and just when the visitors looked to be on the rack, they struck. Breaking away on a counter-attack the MSN tore Arsenal open. Suarez fed Neymar, and after driving into the area, the Brazilian squared for Leo Messi to stroke home the opener.
Leo Messi: "We have picked up a great result against a great side, but nothing is decided" #ArsenalFCB #FCBlive pic.twitter.com/SpmeELmYnT
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 23, 2016
After another counter-attack the MSN combined again and Suarez hit post, but when Messi was brought down in the area the second finally arrived. The Argentine sent Cech the wrong way from the penalty spot and it was only a great late save from the Czech that denied Neymar Barça’s third at the end.
The holders hold the advantage for the return leg at the Camp Nou on Wednesday March 16.
© LALIGA - 2016