Barcelona 2-2 Celta Vigo - Player Ratings
FC Barcelona hosted Celta Vigo as they looked to further consolidate their lead in the standings. The first half was a cagey affair with both the teams trying to go one up on the other. The first break of the match was grabbed by Celta Vigo, following a fine counter-attack. However, their lead did not last long as Barcelona then equalised just two minutes later.
The second half was quite similar to the first. Barcelona took the lead following some neat teamwork between Messi, Alba and finally Suarez. However, Celta did equalise with just ten minutes to go. The match ended in a draw.
Let’s take a look at how the players fared for both the teams.
Barcelona
Ter Stegen: 8/10
The German International was the standout performer in goal He pulled off brilliant saves including two one on ones in each half, apart from a number of routine saves. He could have done nothing about the goals.
Sergi Roberto: 7.5/10
Amazing, solid and reliable. The Spaniard, returning to his familiar right-back role was solid defensively. He absolutely owned the right side of Barcelona half marauding up and down the pitch.
Gerrard Pique: 7/10
Pique had a good game as he dominated and won everything that came his way in the air. He won headers, made blocks and clearances and was a calm head in the heart of the Barca defence. However, he was troubled quite a bit by Celta forwards movements, he was generally more solid.
Samuel Umtiti: 6/10
The France international put in a decent performance at the heart of the defence. He did not shy away from challenges and played the ball out well but was often all over the place when dealing with Aspas's movements.
Jordi Alba: 8/10
The Spanish fullback, was immense last night. He took on players in attack, got an assist for himself and never allowed any Celta player to have any sort of joy on his side. However, he was caught out of positions a couple of times on the counter attacks.
Sergio Busquets: 7/10
The Spanish International was influential throughout the game. He broke plays and started attacks from his own half. This was a good commanding display from him in the middle of the park.
Paulinho: 8/10
Written off and ridiculed, this Brazilian international certainly knows how to shut his critics up. He was almost always a threat in attack. Amazing match for him which will boost his confidence a lot. However, for all his good works, his finishing was quite off as he could not direct two of Barca's best chances inside the post.
Iniesta: 6/10
The World Cup winner looked sharp and dictated things for Barcelona from the midfield. His turns and touches were delightful to watch and suggest that he may have a few years worth of top-level football in his tank.
Ivan Rakitic: 8/10
The Croat was a willing runner in the midfield. He covered for his fullbacks and then contributed going forward as well. He looks to be getting back to his best after a below-par start to this season.
Luis Suarez: 7.5/10
Luis Suarez did everything right today, a rare sight considering his form and performance this season. He pressed defenders, he ran the channels, hold up play, crossing, everything. He assisted Barca's second with a fine first-time finish.
Messi: 9.5/10
The diminutive Argentine finally scored a goal tonight, a common sight this season but after a dry spell of three matches. He scored Barcelona's first on the night and the only thing he did wrong was his freekick in the second half. He is absolutely deadly in that false nine role as he dictated Barcelona's attacks from deep.
Substitutions
Vermaelen: 6.5/10
He came on for an injured Umtiti and had little to do as Celta had taken their foot off the gas by then.
Denis Suarez: 6.5/10
Suarez seems to be growing in his role at Barca. It was a great performance from the youngster, who had a goal and a couple of silky touches and turns to show for.
Paco Alcacer: 5.5/10
Late substitution as Barca went for the winner. He missed a glorious heading opportunity from a delicious Roberto cross.