Goals: Barcelona—Messi 36’, 76’
Recap: Ninety minutes of inspired football saw Barcelona capture a 2-0 victory over Ajax on Wednesday.
A less-than-poetic goal from Lionel Messi opened the affair late in the first half. It was the Argentine’s 70th Champions League goal, leaving him one shy of the all-time record held by former Real Madrid striker Raul. A second yellow for Ajax’s Joel Veltman left the hosts with 10 men, allowing Messi to capture his signature moment in the second half. A clinical finish in the 76th minute left the 26-year-old level with Raul at 71 career goals.
Key Moment: Ajax had the opportunity to grab an early lead, but received little help from the official. A blatant hand ball from Barcelona’s Jordi Alba would’ve provided the club a clear goal-scoring opportunity, but the official inexplicably decided to swallow his whistle.
Man of the Match: Two goals and a share of the all-time scoring record in Champions League play, the award belongs to Lionel Messi.
Lesson Learned: The Luis Suarez that haunted Premier League defenders is yet to arrive in Barcelona. The Uruguayan, after beating the offside trap, was hesitant in the second half. Rather than mercilessly penetrate the penalty area like in year’s past, Suarez opted for a cross that was easily cleared to safety. Still showing adverse effects from his suspension, his Liverpool form is yet to return.
Up Next: Both clubs return to league play, with Barcelona traveling to Almeria on Nov. 8 and Ajax visiting Cambour in Nov. 9.
Note: Credit all statistics to officially licensed data from Opta Sports (via WhoScored).
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