Despite many predicting a close outcome in the final scoreline, Barcelona were able to overcome an in-form Man City to win a comfortable 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium. It wasn’t until the second half that the first goal arrived, as Messi was able to tuck the ball away from the penalty spot after being brought down from behind in the area. The challenge from Demichelis left the referee with no choice but to give a red card after denying a clear goalscoring opportunity. The Spanish giants ended their display in style with a goal from Alves, with his damage down the right-hand side paying off by directing the ball through the legs of hart, thanks to a key assist from Neymar.
City will have a tough hill to climb when travelling to Camp Nou for the second leg in a few weeks time.