Player Ratings: Barcelona 6-0 Sporting Gijon
Luis Suarez was at the forefront again as he guided Barcelona to a 6-0 victory over Sporting Gijon. The Uruguayan scored two neatly finished goals and scored from spot twice. Despite going a goal down, Abelardo Fernandez’s men put up a good fight, creating chances of their own early on with Miguel Guerrero creating trouble in the Barcelona’s box.
Here is how the players fared:
Barcelona
Claudio Bravo: 7
Although Bravo made a good save ten minutes into the game which stopped the Asturian side from going ahead, he almost got caught just before the break as he attempted to cut out an away attack. The keeper barely had a thing to do in the second half.
Sergi Roberto: 7
Played well in both attack and defense. The versatile full-back helped in expanding options while going forward.
Gerard Pique: 7.5
Regained composure quite well after an early mess up. The centre-back made a set of crucial interceptions, essentially killing off Gijon’s attacks.
Javier Mascherano: 8
Played an extremely important role in defense with some vital clearances and crucial tackles. The Argentine had a relatively uneventful second half.
Jordi Alba: 7.5
The fullback wasn’t tight defensively in the first half but made contributed well to Barcelona’s attacks. Won back possession time and again to launch fresh attacks.
Sergio Busquets: 7
Seemed to have found his lost form as he played some insightful balls that kept the Asturian line defense on its toes. Was quite active off the ball too.
Ivan Rakitic: 7.5
The Croatian enjoyed a solid game as he closed off spaces whenever Barca lost possession, showing great physical presence in the match.
Andres Iniesta: 8.5
The veteran was a part of most of the Catalan’s attacks and build ups. Constructed the opening goal with a beautifully lobbed pass into the box.
Lionel Messi: 9.5
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was at the centre of attention yet again. Was in total control as he ripped the Gijon Defense apart. Bagged a goal and an assist to his name.
Luis Suarez: 9.5
Had an unusually quiet first half but exploded on the scene in the second. Scored two neatly finished goals and a couple of brilliant penalties.
Neymar: 8
The Brazilian had some bright as well as frustrating moments in the game. Continued to perform short of his best as he squandered multiple chances.
Substitutes:
Dani Alves: 7
Gave a solid attacking performance. Was tight defensively too.
Marc Bartra: 6.5
Was rarely tested but played responsibly when called into action.
Arda Turan: 6.5
Contributed to attacks whenever called upon.