Messi Wins FIFA World Player Of The Year Award

The Barcelona star beat off stiff competition to be crowned FIFA's World Player Of The Year

Lionel Messi has capped a sensational 12 months in Barcelona colours by being crowned FIFA World Player Of The Year.

Messi, who described his presence at the FIFA Gala as "the culmination of a year that cannot be improved upon", has managed to indeed go one better, sealing the only title still evading him.

The diminutive Argentine beat off competition from the a host of the world’s best including team-mates Andreas Iniesta and Xavi, as well as Real Madrid stars Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo, with the Portuguese having already admitted that "he [Messi] will probably win the award".

The crown capped a quite incredible year for the 22-year-old Argentinian forward who, as a pivotal member of Pep Guardiola’s all conquering Barca squad, beat Estudiantes in FIFA’s Club World Cup final in Abu Dhabi on Saturday to lift their sixth title in the last 12 months.

Messi will add FIFA’s prestigious title to pretty much every individual award in European football; having already been crowned UEFA Club Forward of the Year, UEFA Club Footballer of the Year and UEFA Champions League Top Scorer amongst a host of other individual titles.

Messi’s incredible achievements will go down as one of the most successful seasons ever endured by a single player in club football history.

Iniesta Proud To Share Stage With World's Best Players

The Barca midfielder was on hand to answer questions at the FIFA World Player Gala

As one of the five finalists for the FIFA World Player award, Barcelona's Andres Iniesta was soft spoken at the Gala preceding the presentation of the award.

"I feel immense joy. Being on the same stage and knowing I am at the same level as these players [Lionel Messi, Xavi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kaka] is a huge reward and I congratulate the rest of the players for being here".

With his respect to his favourite memory from a record breaking season, Iniesta spoke of the Barca's European title against Manchester United.

"We have been privileged to have lived so many beautiful moments, but the Champions League final is the best for me," he reminisced.

Seated next to Xavi, Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kaka, the three Barcelona players were markedly shorter than their Madrid counterparts and when asked of the height difference, Iniesta was dismissive, saying, "The important thing is to strike the right balance in the team and Barca have the right blend."

The midfield wizard also spoke of Barca's plans for 2010. "We have some time to wind down, but after the holidays we will see we have achieved nothing with respect to the future and we will fight to win all titles".

Although Messi is widely anticipated to win the award, Iniesta wished to dedicate the accolade to "the fans of the team who have always been there to support. Our team-mates also deserve to be recognised".

Finally, when asked of next summer's World Cup in South Africa, Iniesta was asked to assess Spain's chances.

"The World Cup is always important and I hope the Spanish team can play well. After winning all our matches in the qualifying round, we will try to get as far as possible," he concluded.

Lionel Messi At The FIFA Awards

Widely regarded to win the FIFA World Player Award, Lionel Messi was largely modest in FIFA's Gala preceding the presentation of the award.

When asked of his reaction to receiving the award, Messi expressed his happiness. "It is a great joy to be here for the 3rd consecutive year. It is the culmination of a year that cannot be improved upon".

When asked about his favourite memory of a record year for Barcelona, the Argentine cited the Champions League final victory as his highest achievement. He also went on to praise FIFA for their organization of the Club World Cup and cited the Abu Dhabi fans as "very enthusiastic".

As for what is in store for the rest of 2010, the Ballon d'Or winner highlighted the importance of working to continue to achieve good results saying that Barca would continue to fight for all titles.

Seated next to Xavi, Iniesta, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kaka, the three Barcelona players were markedly shorter than their Madrid counterparts and when asked of the height difference, Messi downplayed its importance, saying "Barca have some tall players, but also players who can run a match. Football is such that height does not matter as much as talent."

The Argentine had high praise for the rest of the candidates and thanked Crisitano Ronaldo for his warm compliments, saying that the arrivals of CR9 and Kaka to La Liga will reinforce the Spanish league. However, he did not go so far as to say that La Liga stood atop the world as the best league citing England's teams that are always near the top of the Champions League. Of Robinho's possible transfer to Barcelona in January, Messi chose not to comment, but said that if the Brazilian did come to Barca, he would be welcome.

Finally, when asked why he could not manage to replicate his club form for the Argentina national team, Messi was evasive. "I just want to say that I will try to do the same thing for the Albiceleste as for Barca. The qualifying matches were difficult, but World Cup can be very different. I have achieved everything I can for my club, now I would like to do the same for the national team".

Barcelona 2-1 Estudiantes

Barcelona 2-1 Estudiantes: Messi Heads Blaugrana Into The History Books With Extra-Time Goal

Barca have been crowned the best club side in the world after a dramatic finish to the FIFA Club World Cup

Estudiantes-Barcelona (Mexsport)

Barcelona 2-1 Estudiantes - Lineup/Stats

2009 FIFA Club World Cup - Fixtures & Results

Barcelona had to come from behind to steal a 2-1 win against Estudiantes in the final of the FIFA Club World Cup. Pedro netted an 89the minute equaliser to cancel out Mauro Boselli’s surprise opener, but Lionel Messi struck in the second period of extra-time to etch the Catalan behemoths’ name into the record books.

Barcelona began in their usual manner, pushing forward from the first whistle, with Lionel Messi and Dani Alves combining well down the right flank early on.

But just as it was in the semi-final against Atlanta, the Spaniards’ yawning defence was exposed after just four minutes when Juan Veron lifted a gorgeous through ball over the backline for Enzo Perez, but Victor Valdes dashed off his line just in time to smother the ball.

Barca had their first opening on eight minutes when Dani Alves’ through ball was touched on by Zlatan Ibrahimovic for Xavi, but the playmaker decided to square it to the backpost for Thierry Henry instead of going for the shot, and ‘Titi’ could only watch the ball trickle out of play at the byline.

Clear cut chances were hard to come by as both sides battled for supremacy in midfield. On 27 minutes, Veron tried his luck from distance when he picked up Leandro Benitez’s delivery from a corner and drilled in a searing half volley from angle, but it flew wide of Valdes’ right post.

Xavi then thought he had earned himself a penalty when he ran onto Messi’s through pass but as he tried to flick it past the on-rushing Albil, he was felt by the shot-stopper, but the referee only signalled for a goalkick.

But on 37 minutes, completely against the run of play, Los Pincharratas surged into the lead. Juan Diaz floated in a perfectly weighted cross from the left and Mauro Boselli ghosted in between Abidal and Puyol to thump a bullet header past a hapless Victor Valdes.

Barcelona responded with Ibrahimovic attempting a ambitious bicycle kick from an indirect Messi freekick, but was marginally beaten to the ball by Albil. Frustration began to show in the faces of the European champions as they continually struggled to find a way to break down the sturdy Estudiantes defence, as the Copa Libertadores winners marched back into the dressing at the break with a deserved 1-0 lead.

Pep Guardiola introduced Pedro for Seydou Keita at the start of the second half, but it was Ibrahimovic who almost equalised for Barca when he darted into the box and skipped past Desabato but his low shot across the face of goal bobbled agonisingly wide.

Around the hour mark, Pedro was twice gifted a clear scoring chance right infront of goal when he ran onto a cross from the left but on both occasions, he failed to make clean contact with the ball.

Ten minutes later, Pedro again had the best opportunity to restore parity when he picked up Xavi’s trough pass, spun past a defender and charged into the box but his shot from angle was blocked by Albil’s trailing leg.

Ibrahimovic had an even better chance on 78 minutes when he found space inside the box to meet Xavi’s brilliantly lofted cross but somehow headed wide from six yards out.

The incessant pressure paid off two minutes from time when the Estudiantes defence lost their concentration and Barca drew levelled. Pique headed on a high ball from Ibrahimovic to Pedro, who found himself completely unmarked inside the box and the youngster cleverly looped a header over Albil to send the game into extra-time.

Barcelona came firing out of the blocks and Messi first saw an early freekick dip agonisingly over the bar. The Argentine then fired wide from close range after being teed up by Ibrahimovic. The Swede himself then had an excellent chance in the 102nd minute when he was put through by Jeffren, but blasted his shot high and wide.

The South Americans had nothing left in the tank in attack for the final 15 minutes of extra time. But it was their defence who suffered another lapse in concentration as the Europeans finally went infront in the 110the minute. Dani Alves’ pin-point cross picked out Messi, who found himself unattended inside the box as he coolly chested the ball past a despairing Albil from three yards out.

There was one last drama a minute into injury time of extra time when Veron swept in a freekick and Desabato rose high inside the crowded box but sent his glancing header inches wide of Valdes’ left post.

That was the last action of the game and of the tournament as Barcelona held on to claim a historic sixth title this year alone as they return to Spain as the 2009 FIFA Club World Cup champions.

Stuttgart in the Champions League

Stuttgart in the Champions League

www.fcbarcelona.cat

Barça will play Stuttgart in the Champions League second round following today’s draw. The first leg will be in Germany and the return here at the Camp Nou.

The first game will be played on 16/17 or 23/24 February and the second on 9/10 of 16/17 March Barcelona. Alexander Hleb, a Barça player on loan to the Bundesliga outfit, will be returning to the Camp Nou that day.

Recent precedent

Barça and Stuttgart have met twice in official games before. That was in the group stages of the Champions League in 2007/08. In the first game, the Catalans won 0-2 at the Gottlieb-Daimlier-Stadion, with goals from Puyol and Messi. The group ended with a meaningless encounter in the Camp Nou, which the home side won 3-1 to top the group with 14 points, while Stuttgart finished bottom with just 4.

Last day qualification

Stuttgart qualified for this stage by finishing second in Group G, which was topped by Sevilla. Unirea Urziceni came third and Glasgow Rangers fourth. The Germans started poorly with just 2 points from 9, but got things right in the second half and eventually sealed passage with a 3-1 win over the Romanian side.

Second round

Stuttgart-FCB
Olympiakos-Girondins
Inter-Chelsea
Bayern-Fiorentina
CSKA Moscow-Sevilla
Olympique Lyon-Madrid
Porto-Arsenal
Milan-Manchester Utd

The Most Important Moment In Their History

Laporta is confident that the Blaugrana can capture the Club World Cup

Following Barcelona’s victory over Mexican outfit Atlante in FIFA’s Club World Cup earlier today, Blaugrana president Joan Laporta has heralded the upcoming final against Estudiantes as "the most important" in the club's illustrious history.

"We are in the most important moment in our history and I am confident that the strength and spirit of Barcelona fans will bring us victory," he said, according to Marca.com.

Barcelona booked their place in the final with yet another accomplished performance after going a goal behind just five minutes in, but Laporta was never worried about the outcome.

"Beyond the mishap the first goal, we controlled the game in a devastating way," he said.

Barcelona will now march into the final this weekend where they will face Juan Veron’s Estudiantes in the hope of being crowned World Champions for the first time in their illustrious history.

If they are to win the elusive trophy, they may have to do it without midfielder Andres Iniesta who picked up a muscle injury. Barcelona officials have confirmed the muscle damage but said they won’t know the full extent of the problem until team doctors have inspected him back at the club’s hotel.

Pedro Set To Make History At Club World Cup

Should he manage to score a goal for Barcelona in the FIFA Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi, Pedro Rodriguez will record an achievement which has never been done before in the club's 110-year history: to score a goal in six different competitions during a single season.

The 22-year-old club youth product has already scored at least one goal in each of Barcelona's other five competitions this season (Liga, Champions League, Copa del Rey, Spanish Super Cup, European Super Cup) and his goals have proven to be decisive in a number of matches.

"We are showing very good form and hopefully the good streak of results can continue so we can take the title", commented the youngster on the club's official website.

"We are feeling very well and if I were to score a goal it would be great. For me it would be the end to a perfect year and for the entire team as well".

Pedro has enjoyed enormous success after being called up to the first team by Blaugrana coach Pep Guardiola this season and looks to be well on his way to earning a call-up to the Spanish national squad before too long. With Lionel Messi rated doubtful for Barca's semi-final match against Mexican side Atlante in the Club World Cup, Pedro will likely get a start, making his chances of setting the scoring milestone far greater.

Player Ratings: Barcelona 3-1 Atlante

Ewan Macdonald rates the individual performers on show at the Zayed Sports City

BARCELONA (4-3-3)

Valdes - 7: Had very little to do but pulled off one particularly nice one-on-one save from Rafa Marquez Lugo.

Dani Alves - 6.5: Sold the jerseys for the first goal before responding with some fine attacking play.

Rafa Marquez - 6: Slow off his mark at times but otherwise fine.

Puyol - 5: Shaky in the opening stages and partially at fault for the first goal, too.

Abidal - 6.5: After a poor first half he recovered well to finish the game in style.

Xavi - 7.5: A couple of sublime through balls and typically positive possession play meant a good evening for Xavi.

Toure Yaya - 7: Assisted Busquets for the first goal and otherwise looked positive.

Sergio Busquets - 7.5: Another good performer, and he took his goal especially well.

Pedro - 7: A fantastic goal, but other than that he could have done more on the ball.

Ibrahimovic - 7.5: Did not score, but his contribution cannot be underestimated. His build-up play is sublime at times.

Iniesta - 7: After a very poor first half he grew into his role in the second, especially when moved back.

Substitutes

Messi - 8: It's a cliche by now. On he comes, and he scores. A very well-taken run and goal within seconds of his introduction. From there he got even better.

Pique 6 - Average - centre-back is not Barca's strength right now.

Bojan 6

ATLANTE (3-5-2)

Vilar - 7.5: A couple of shaky moments aside, he was an inspiration, and certainly not at fault for the goals.

Rojas - 8: Marked high not only for the goal but his dynamic play on the flank. Extremely skilful and gave Barca some worrying moments.

Martinez - 6: A fairly mediocre performance in the second half, although he was better earlier on.

Velazquez - 7: A powerhouse defensively until he was removed due to picking up a booking.

Bermudez - 4: Catastrophic at times and often two steps behind the action. No composure.

Navarro - 6.5: Very nice on the ball but his final product was lacking. He also lacks confidence in the finish.

Gonzalez - 5: The most disappointing member of the midfield. Unable to find the simple pass.

Guerrero - 6: Went about his job quietly and was involved in closing down Barca in the first half.

Arreola - 7: Some decent interceptions and otherwise active.

Solari - 6.5: Definitely the more active of the two forwards, but he faded after that earlier period of pressure.

Rafael Marquez Lugo - 5: Had one fine chance and spurned it.

Substitutes

Carevic - 6.5

Pereyra - 5.5

Atlante 1-3 Barcelona

Atlante 1-3 Barcelona: The Blaugrana Fight Back To Clinch Final Berth

The Catalonians eventually showed their class to defeat the Mexicans

The Young Ones: Pedro and Sergio Busquets roar to victory for Barcelona (Getty Images)

Atlante 1-3 Barcelona

Club World Cup Fixtures/Results

Barcelona are through to the Club World Cup final to face Estudiantes after coming back from a goal down to defeat Mexican champions Atlante 3-1 in Abu Dhabi.

Guillermo Rojas had given Los Potros de Hierro a stunning lead after just four minutes, but the Spanish side eventually found their rhythm and goals from Sergio Busquets, Lionel Messi and Pedro handed Pep Guardiola's squad a deserved place in the showpiece event on Saturday.

Barcelona were considered massive favourites to make it through to the final prior to kick-off, and Guardiola opted to leave talismanic forward Lionel Messi on the substitutes' bench, instead starting with a front three of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Andres Iniesta and Pedro.

But the Blaugrana could not have envisaged a worst start to the match, as the Mexicans flew from the blocks to take the lead after just four minutes. Guillermo Rojas ran beyond the static Carles Puyol and Dani Alves to lift the ball over Victor Valdes and slide it into the empty net.

It was a shocking goal to concede by the Spanish champions, and their ineptness defensively continued as their offside trap was sprung by Fernando Navarro. However, the midfielder was indecisive when bearing down on Valdes and his cutback eluded his team-mates.

Barcelona enjoyed the huge majority of possession for the remainder of the half, but their play lacked any incision as Atlante defended stoutly on the edge of their 18-yard box.

Long-range efforts from Iniesta and Yaya Toure whizzed over, while an ambitious Ibrahimovic free-kick flew over the crossbar, as Guardiola’s side grew frustrated at their inability to penetrate the Mexicans' goal.

However, the equaliser arrived at a timely moment before the interval, and it took a set-piece routine to drew the European champions level. Xavi’s corner was flicked on by Toure and Sergio Busquets instinctively drilled the ball under the body of Federico Vilar.

Barcelona sensed an opportunity to go into half-time with the lead, and it should have arrived as Dani Alves burst in on goal from one of his trademark forays forward on the right, but he could only shoot into the side-netting and it remained 1-1 at the break.

Guardiola recognised his side’s lack of invention and introduced Lionel Messi seven minutes into the second period. His reshuffle paid immediate dividends as the Argentine put the Catalan giants in front.

Ibrahimovic slid an exquisite through pass into the path of the Ballon d’Or winner, and he rounded Vilar to roll the ball home via the flailing hand of the goalkeeper, to give his side a lead that their dominance of play deserved.

Barcelona were beginning to further exert their influence on proceedings as the match progressed, with Atlante’s flying start looking more and more to be a distant memory, and a two-goal cushion arrived on 66 minutes thanks to a lovely move.

Once again Ibrahimovic was involved, sending Iniesta clear on the left, and the Spaniard drew two defenders towards him before flicking a lovely pass to Pedro, who controlled and nonchalantly lifted his shot into the net from ten yards. It was a picturebook goal from the Blaugrana, and one that edged them closer to more silverware.

To Atlante’s credit, however, they continued to attempt to fashion a route back into the match, and Valdes had to be on his toes to parry a Rafael Marquez Lugo effort as he bore down on goal.

But that was the last attack from plucky Atlante as Barcelona played out the final ten minutes as only they can, maintaining possession and although both Pedro and substitute Bojan should have extended the lead it mattered little - the European giants had successfully negotiated a tricky tie to qualify for the Club World Cup final.

Showcase 'Special' Shirt At Club World Cup

Barcelona To Showcase 'Special' Shirt At Club World Cup

The Catalans are set to wear a unique jersey to mark their participation in the tournament in Abu Dhabi

Barcelona will have a new shirt design for their matches in the FIFA Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi.

The new shirts will be very similar to the red/blue home and orange away shirts worn by Barca in La Liga, but will include above the UNICEF logo on the chest, the inscription: 'FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2009 Zayed Sports City Abu Dhabi'.

On the right sleeve, the shirt will also feature the FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2009 logo (pictured).

Despite sharing similar club colours as their semi-final opponents Atlante, Barca will wear their home shirts in the match on Wednesday while the Mexican side will wear their all blue change strip.

Messi Goes Training On The Beaches Of Abu Dhabi

Barcelona's Lionel Messi Goes Training On The Beaches Of Abu Dhabi

In his first training since arriving in Abu Dhabi, Lionel Messi has taken to the city's sandy beaches to aid the recovery of his injured ankle

Barcelonas ace Lionel Messi has begun training this morning on the sand of Abu Dhabi's beaches in an effort to aid his ailing ankle's recovery.

Rated as doubtful for Barca's Club World Cup semi-final match against Mexican outfit Atlante, Messi hopes to be ready in time for the final should Barca come out as the victors.

The Argentine starlet has trained with and without the ball on the sand with the aim of putting a less stress on his sprained ankle than would happen if training on harder ground.

According to the preliminary assessment, Messi could still train with the rest of his team-mates in this afternoon's training session. Messi's injury has already kept him out of last weekend's Barcelona derby against Espanyol and it remains to be seen if he will be able to dispute the Club World Cup.

Veron Full Of Praise For Barcelona And Messi

Estudiantes Maestro Juan Veron Full Of Praise For Barcelona And Lionel Messi

Veron thinks Barca have been the best team in the last two years

Estudiantes captain Juan Veron has declared his admiration for Pep Guardiola's Barcelona and his Argentine compatriot Leo Messi.

Ahead of El Leon's forthcoming FIFA Club World Cup semi-final against Pohang Steelers, the former Inter man told members of the media in Abu Dhabi that, "For me, Barcelona is the best team in the last two years".

'La Brujita' went on to heap praise on Barca, describing them as "a team team that gives pleasure". The midfielder, who is enjoying a highly successful end to his career back home in Argentina, also singled out his international team-mate Lionel Messi for individual praise.

"Leo, in this last year has hit an impressive peak individually," he said, before admitting he "was happy" both for Messi and football as a whole "because we can see a great player in his great moment".

Barcelona face Mexican club Atlante on Wednesday in their semi-final of a tournament that is historically considered much more important in South American than it is in Europe.

Has Already Made History

Club World Cup: This Barcelona Team Has Already Made History - Captain Carles Puyol

No matter what happens at the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi, Carles Puyol has declared that his team have already made history

Barcelona captain Carles Puyol has declared that no matter what happens at the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi, where Barcelona will hope to win their sixth consecutive trophy, his team have already made history by securing the Triplete last season along with the Spanish and European Supercups this season.

"I think this club has already made history, but we want more and that is why we are here," announced the central defender. Puyol admitted that the squad was a bit tired after the long trip from Barcelona to Abu Dhabi (with a layover in Istanbul, Turkey), but went on to say that "We are accustomed to playing lots of matches without much in the way of rest, so it's not something new for us". The captain did, however, express his pleasure with the warm temperatures, calling the desert heat "agreeable".

In the same press conference, Ukrainian defender Dmytro Chygrynskiy expressed his own desire to win his first title with Barcelona, commenting that "this is the best Barcelona side in history" and that for him, "winning is like a drug".

Winning World Club Cup Would Be Historic

Barcelona's Andres Iniesta: Winning World Club Cup Would Be Historic

The cultured midfielder is hoping for more honours with his club

Barcelona star Andres Iniesta has discussed the impending World Club Championship, and said that victory for the Blaugrana in the tournament would be a historic moment for the club.

The Camp Nou side qualify for the competition courtesy of their Champions League win over Manchester United at the end of last season in the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

Iniesta urged his teammates to go for glory in the event and that they regard the tournament as a very important title.

Marca reports that the midfielder said, “This title is important to us and for the whole club in general and also for the fans. It makes us very excited and we are keen to play.

“We had the opportunity to be in this competition three years ago, we have everything to win and that would be historic.”

Iniesta also highlighted that he knew little about Barcelona’s potential opponents, and that their lack of knowledge makes the other sides dangerous.

“Most of the opponents are unknown to us, but to play in this competition they have to be champions of their respective countries and this must be taken into account.

“There is no time to relax because any team can win.”

Reflect On Barcelona's Win Over Espanyol

Pedro And Xavi Reflect On Barcelona's Win Over Espanyol

The midfielder touched on the controversial penalty

Barcelona continued their impressive form in La Liga with a win over Espanyol, maintaining their lead on top of the table.

Speaking to Sport after the game, Pedro offered his thoughts on the match, saying, "This allows us to remain on top of the table."

Meanwhile, Xavi analyzed the game in further detail, starting with the penalty, saying, "Baena fouled me and stopped me from challenging for the ball."

"He admitted it on the pitch. They defender very well, but did not do anything in attack.

"They wanted to spoil our rhythm by fouling.

"It was an ugly game that, fortunately, we won."

Player Ratings: Barcelona 1-0 Espanyol

BARCELONA (4-3-3)

Valdes - 7: Called into action seldom, but confident when these situations arose.

Alves - 6.5: Should have done better with his crossing, although his energy was boundless.

Puyol - 6: Not one of the captain's better evenings. In fact it was quite a wasteful one.

Pique - 7: His usual aerial threat was present and he was a fine force defensively as well.

Maxwell - 6.5: A howler near the end almost ruined what began as a positive evening for the ex-Inter man.

Xavi - 7: Quiet by his standards, but still to be commended for some fine passing and possession play.

Toure - 6.5: Played the simple pass and tracked back well, but was unspectacular over the piece.

Iniesta - 5: A very disappointing performance from a man capable of much, much better. Nothing he tried seemed to work.

Pedro - 6.5: Was unlucky not to open the scoring early on, and always looked ready to receive the ball.

Ibrahimovic - 8.5: The engine through which a Messi-less Barcelona can still tick over. His buildup play and trickery on the ball are utterly invaluable, and he took his penalty brilliantly.

Henry - 6.5: Henry did enough to have an acceptable game, but little more. Kept his marker busy, at least.

Substitutes

Keita 7

Bojan 6

Busquets N/A

ESPANYOL (4-2-3-1)

Kameni - 7.5: Could do nothing about the penalty but commanded his area very well otherwise, especially with balls across goalmouth.

Roncaglia - 8: Started badly but grew into his role brilliantly to end up as Espanyol's top performer, keeping Henry quiet and helping out at set-pieces to good effect.

Pareja - 7: A positive showing in which the physical stopper was unfortunate to be on the losing side.

Victor Ruiz - 6.5: Did not assert himself very well in dead ball situations but was solid otherwise.

Chica - 5.5: A decent start was marred as he nearly 'sold the jerseys' for a Pedro opener. Too inconsistent in his role and perhaps the weak link in the defence.

Baena - 4.5: His tender age may help explain why his every touch of the ball was tinged with fear. Against Barcelona you need a solid central midfield; Baena can't provide. Not marked down for the penalty, which was harsh against him.

Forlin - 7: Clumsy in the challenge at times but even without assistance he was a bulldog.

Coro - 6: Was afforded plenty of space but did virtually nothing with it.

Verdu - 6.5: His excellent long-range effort could have changed the game, but he was removed at half time for failing to assert himself.

Luis Garcia - 6.5: Played well out wide at times but lacked the killer ball and the confidence to cut inside.

Ivan Alonso - 6: Had an utterly thankless task on his hands in the first half but held the ball up well. But with chances at a premium, he should have done better with what scraps he was fed.

Substitutes

Jose Callejon 6.5

Javi Marquez 7.5

Ben Sahar 5.5

Barcelona 1-0 Espanyol

A highly debatable penalty for the hosts proved the difference at the Camp Nou

Barcelona 1-0 Espanyol - Lineups/Stats

La Liga - Fixtures/Results

A contentious penalty was all that separated the two sides in the Barcelona derby, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic doing the honours from the spot.

Thierry Henry earned a start for Barca in place of the injured Lionel Messi, while Yaya Toure and Maxwell also entered the eleven. Espanyol, meanwhile, had to do without Ivan De La Pena and Raul Tamudo, while Shunsuke Nakamura started from the bench.

Los Periquitos caused a shock last season by beating the Blaugrana at the Camp Nou, and they looked in the mood from the kick-off, with Coro shooting wide after good combination work with Luis Garcia. In a frantic start to the game, Gerard Pique then saw his header will saved by Carlos Kameni.

It was an end to end encounter in the early stages, with Pedro firing wide after finding himself through on goal, following a poor clearance from Chica. Seconds later, Joan Verdu dispatched a shot goalwards, but Victor Valdes tipped it around in the nick of time.

A goal for either side seemed imminent, as Henry became the latest to be thwarted by Kameni, after being released by Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Yet, it did not arrive, and after a frenetic opening, the pace of the game slowed slightly.

With ten minutes left, Ibrahimovic combined well with Maxwell, only for the defender to shoot over the bar. Then came the first turning point of the game, with Raul Baena deemed to have fouled Xavi in the box, as the referee pointed to the spot. It was a poor decision as there was minimal contact, but the crowd were not complaining. In the absence of Messi, Ibrahimovic stepped up and duly smashed it into the top right corner, to give the hosts the lead.

That proved to be the final action of the half, as Barca took a somewhat fortuitous lead into the break.

Mauricio Pochettino made an immediate change for the second half, replacing Baena and Verdu with Javier Marquez and Jose Callejon. The visitors signalled their intent early, and Valdes had to be alert to deny Ivan Alonso's header on 50 minutes.

Barca still looked the more likely to score, but they were having trouble finding a target for the many opportunities they created. Espanyol, meanwhile, came close once more through Marquez, whose long range effort did not miss by much.

With twenty minutes remaining, the referee failed to award Chica a second yellow despite a late challenge on Andres Iniesta, perhaps trying to make up for his earlier error. Ibrahimovic should then have increased the lead, but his effort at the far post from a Seydou Keita cross flew over the bar. It was to be his last contribution, as he was soon replaced by Bojan.

The Blaugrana were looking dangerous again, but Pique headed over the bar once more from a corner, keeping the visitors in the game. Kameni was constantly alert to snuff out a number of threatening balls into the box, while the visitor's counter-attacking opportunities started to diminish.

Espanyol continued to fight valiantly, but it was Barca who looked more likely to score in the closing stages. As it was, neither side could find a second goal, as Barca maintained their five point lead before departing for the Club World Cup.

Pique Hoping For Club World Cup Success

The defender wants to be crowned the best in the world

Barcelona embark on their Club World Cup campaign on Wednesday, and Gerard Pique is hoping to win the trophy this time around.

The championships is the only major tournament missing from Barca's trophy cabinet, and Pique is hoping to change that. Speaking to Marca, he said, "All the titles are a priority for this team."

"But there is a special motivation for this one, because if you win it, you can say you are the best in the world."

Pique has been a key component of Barca's impressive defensive record this campaign, and he elaborated on the situation, continuing, "We have a positive feeling in defence."

"If you keep a clean sheet, your chances of winning increase."

Barca will face either Auckland City or Atlante in their first match of the Club World Cup.

Del Bosque Nominates For FIFA Player Of The Year Award

Messi is favourite to add to his Ballon d'Or

Spain coach Vicente del Bosque has revealed the three players he nominated for the FIFA World Player of the Year award for 2009.

Del Bosque opted for Barcelona forward Lionel Messi, Real Madrid & Portugal winger Cristiano Ronaldo and Chelsea's Ivorian striker Didier Drogba in that order. The winner of this year's award is set to be announced on December 21.

"I voted for [Lionel] Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, [Didier] Drogba, in that order. I don't mind saying so," Del Bosque told AS.

All national team coaches and captains vote for candidates on FIFA's 23-man shortlist but cannot vote for players from their own teams.

Messi already collected the 2009 Ballon d'Or earlier this month and is the favourite to claim the FIFA prize. The Argentinian has finished runner up for the previous two years with Ronaldo claiming the award last year.

Eager To Beat Barcelona To Club World Cup

The Argentinians are keen to upset Barcelona and win the Club World Cup

Alejandro Sabella - DT de Estudiantes de La Plata

Estudiantes coach Alejandro Sabella guided his team to Copa Libertadores victory earlier this year and he's now aiming to lift the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi, where his side will begin in next Tuesday’s semi-final.

"I’m starting to feel a little nervous, mainly because this is a very important competition for the club. You try to do your job properly and leave nothing to chance, but football is football and you can end up with any one of three results," said Sabella to FIFA.com.

"We’ve got information on both the Korean and the African teams and we’re still looking at that. We’ll also have the chance to see them in action and that will give us a clearer picture of things. One thing I do know though, is that it won’t be easy.

"Estudiantes have a special feeling for tournaments like this and like any Argentinian team they always command respect, especially when they’re not the favourites. On paper Barcelona are the team to beat, but we’ll do everything we can to reach the final and, if we make it, to win the title."

Messi A Doubt For Espanyol Tie After Limping

The striker picked up a knock late on against the Ukrainians

Barcelona star Lionel Messi is doubtful for the city derby against Espanyol after picking up a knock in the 2-1 win away to Dynamo Kiev in the UEFA Champions League.

The Argentinian wizard was subjected to a number of tough tackles throughout the game from a physical Ukrainian outfit but was rewarded for his perserverance four minutes from time, curling in an exquisite free kick off the under side of the crossbar to knock the hosts out of European competition this season.

In the dying stages of the game Messi shipped another heavy challenge and in the end limped off the pitch. Initial examination by club physicians suggest that he has suffered a minor ankle sprain, according to AS, making him doubtful for Saturday's Primera Liga tie against the Blanc i Blau at Camp Nou.

Messi is likely to undergo a scan tomorrow in Barcelona to determine the full extent of the injury and coach Pep Guardiola will be sweating over the Argentinian stars availability with the Blaugrana set to take part in the FIFA Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi next week.

Player Ratings: Dynamo Kiev 1-2 Barcelona

Xavi and Lionel Messi powered the Blaugrana past their pesky hosts

DYNAMO KIEV

Shovkovskiy - 6 - Made some fine saves and generally had a very good game. Needs to improve on his distribution.

Betao - 6 - Got around the defence well and slid in with some crucial tackles that stopped goal scoring chances.

Vukojevic - 5.5 - Struggled to cope with the pace and movement of Barca's forwards but looked dominant in the air when there was a rare high ball to defend.

Almeida - 6 - Good silky player. Has a very good pass on him and excellent vision. However, he needs to work on his positioning when Dynamo don't have the ball.

Mikhalik - 5 - Poor game. Hardly aware of his name or presence on the pitch.

Eremenko - 6 - Made some good runs and worked his socks off for the team. Passing was crisp but inventiveness was lacking.

Magrao - 7 - Very good display. Ran around like a toddler with endless energy and made countless tackles to keep his side in the game.

Yussuf - 6 - Frustrating player to watch. One moment brilliant and the next very poor. Consistency has to get better.

Milevskiy - 7 - Took the goal very well and made a nuisance of himself all night long.

Yarmolenko - 6 - Good runs along the wing, dropped inside and did his best to get involved in the play.

Shevchenko - 6 - Some good passing and crosses but that was all. His team needed more from one of their most experienced players.

Subs

Ninkovic - N/A

BARCELONA

Valdes - 6 - Solid and very quick off his line but should have done better with the Dynamo goal.

Alves- 6.5 - Typical solid performance, ran up and down the pitch all night and looked solid in defence.

Pique - 6 - Did fairly well but got himself booked for a silly hand ball just seconds before half-time.

Puyol - 6 - A quiet game for the shark. Filled in the gaps when someone was out of position and tackled when he needed to.

Abidal - 6.5 - Ran the wing very well and got round to cover in defensive positions. Made some crucial interceptions.

Xavi - 7 - Good passes and great energy. Showed the enthusiasm of a striker as he burst into the box to slide in and score Barca's equaliser.

Iniesta - 6 - Disappointing but then he was played slightly out of position as he drifted in from the left.

Keita - 6 - Moved around well but is frustrating to watch. Has a tendency to dive in and go for tackles and balls when a little more patience is the better option.

Busquets - 6 - Not his best game in a Barca shirt but he got involved in the midfield battles and did all of the ugly things very well.

Ibrahimovic - 6.5 - Always a hand full and he made a nuisance of himself all night. Could not get over his headers and put too much of the emphasis on Messi.

Messi - 7.5 - Always hustling and bustling and looked very good. Curled in his free kick superbly but went down too easily under Dynamo's challenges.

Subs

Marquez - N/A

Pedro - N/A

Dynamo Kiev 1-2 Barcelona

Dynamo Kiev 1-2 Barcelona: Late Messi Free-Kick Ensures Blaugrana Top Group F

Pep Guardiola's side shook off an early fright to progress to the next round

Dynamo 1-2 Barcelona
Champions League Results/Standings

Barcelona came from behind in Ukraine this evening to see off a plucky Dynamo Kiev side 2-1 to ease into the knockout stages of the Champions League.

Artem Milevsky opened the scoring after just two minutes, but the Spanish side always looked in control and goals from Xavi and Lionel Messi were enough to see the 2008-09 champions top Group F ahead of Inter.

If results went against the Blaugrana this evening there was still a possibility that they could face a group stage exit. A two-goal defeat to the Ukranians coupled with an Inter or Rubin win at the Giuseppe Meazza would send Pep Guardiola's side spiralling out of the competition.

And they suffered the worst possible start to the match thanks to a stunning opener from Artem Milevsky. Andriy Shevchenko curled in a teasing free-kick in between defence and goalkeeper, and Milevsky connected to deflect the ball into the net.

Barcelona 'keeper Victor Valdes did not cover himself in glory, however, as the ball somehow squirmed through his grasp, but the home side didn't care - they had grabbed a crucial lead and Guardiola held a pensive expression on the touchline.

Despite that early set-back, however, the rest of the half belonged to the European Champions, who dominated possession, but just lacked a killer instinct to draw level.

Both Daniel Alves and Lionel Messi drew good saves from Oleksandr Shovskovski as the visitors enjoyed an incredible 75 per cent of the ball in the first half and it was no surprise when the equaliser arrived on 33 minutes.

Eric Abidal was the most advanced attacker on the pitch, reaching the byline and picking out team-mate Xavi with a perfect cutback. The Spanish international playmaker coolly slotted the ball into the net, and we were all square.

News filtered through that former Camp Nou favourite Samuel Eto'o had given Inter the lead in Italy, meaning at this point it was the two big guns heading for qualification, and it would take an almighty second-half display from Dynamo Kiev in order to reach the knock-out stages.

But despite Barcelona's dominance, Kiev squandered a golden chance to edge back in front just after the interval.

Another vicious Shevchenko delivery found the head of Leandro, but he could only direct his header wide of Valdes' post and a glorious opportunity had been squandered.

After their scare, the Blaugrana regained control of the match and were quite content to keep possession for long periods, frustrating the Ukrainians who were the side who needed the ball.

Just when they seemed content to see out the match and claim the point the required to top the section, in typical Barcelona style, they sealed the victory in the closing moments, and a deserved one at that.

Recently-crowned Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi had one of his quieter evenings, even by his standards, but he made sure his impact was the lasting memory of the match, four minutes from time.

Winning a free-kick himself, he dusted himself off and whipped the ball supremely over the Kiev wall and crashing in off Shovskovski's crossbar and into the back of the net.

Kiev's mission impossible had been outdone by the superior side on the night, and the champions secure their passage to the Super 16 stage in their bid to defend their title.

Begiristain Wary Of Dynamo Kiev

The Blaugrana are not through yet

Barcelona travel to Kiev needing to avoid a loss by two goals or more to progress in the Champions League, and Txiki Begiristain knows that it won't be easy.

Speaking to Marca before boarding the plane, Begiristain said, "This is the most important game of the year."

"Our objective is to qualify, if possible in first place. This has been a very hard group, with four champions.

"The cold weather and state of the pitch are a concern.

"It will not be as comfortable as the game against Inter."

Should Barca lose by two goals or more, they will need the game between Inter and Rubin Kazan to finish in a draw to progress.

We Must Play Our Normal Game Against Dynamo Kiev

Pep is seeking goals against Dynamo on Wednesday evening

Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has declared that his team will look for goals against Dynamo Kiev on Wednesday night in the crucial UEFA Champions League tie in Kiev.

The Blaugrana coach also insisted that if his team go looking for a 1-0 victory they will be beaten. He is adamant that the champions will approach the game like any other, looking to play attacking football and creating chances.

"We can only be ourselves. We have to go looking for goals and if we score, qualification [for knockout stages] is closer. If we go with the idea of taking a 1-0 win we will be beaten by three or four goals. I won't be telling my players that 1-0 is enough," he declared at a press conference.

"In December you cannot win the Champions League, but you can lose it. They [Kiev] have a strong strategy but in defence they are more individual and they are very strong physically.

"If they win 2-0 we go out, but if we score we are closer to going through."

Ibrahimovic: I Want To Win Everything

The Swede wants to continue Barca's success

Zlatan Ibrahimovic joined a side that won everything last season, and he wants it to continue with him leading the line.

Barce get a chance to add another trophy, the Club World Cup, to their trophy cabinet shortly, and 'Ibra' is looking forward to the challenge. Speaking to Marca, he said, "First we have games against Kiev and Espanyol, but the Club World Cup is a very important trophy that we have never won."

"If we win, we would have won everything in one and a half seasons."

Ibrahimovic then moved on to the Champions League clash against Dynamo Kiev, continuing, "We won two difficult games last week, and now we want to beat Dynamo and finish first."

"It will be another difficult game, because it is the last of the group stage."

The Swedish striker then explained why he has settled in to the side so comfortably, stating, "Barca plays in a style that I like a lot."

"All the players want to attack. I can play better, but after three months I understand what the coach wants.

"When you feel free and concentrated on the pitch, things are easier.

"I score so many goals because we attack a lot, and create a lot of chances."

Ibrahimovic then made a comparison to Serie A, saying, "There it is more important not to concede than to score."

"If you are winning 1-0, that is enough.

"But here, you always want to score more."

Finally, Ibra spoke of his partnership with Lionel Messi, stating, "Every day we understand each other more, and the fans are entertained when we play together."

Beating Dynamo Kiev Won’t Be A Problem - Chygrynskiy

The Ukrainian thinks his countrymen rely too heavily on three players

Barcelona defender Dmytro Chygrynskiy has declared that if the European champions play to their strengths then they should have no problems overcoming Dynamo Kiev in their crucial UEFA Champions League tie on Wednesday night.

The former Shakhtar Donetsk centre-back, who is cup-tied for the Champions League, says that Kiev rely too much on three key players and also added that the weather should not have a big impact on the Blaugrana.

"They are very strong physically and are very well prepared. [Oleksandr] Shovkovsky, [Andriy] Shevchenko and [Artem] Milevskiy are their best players, but sometimes they rely too heavily on them. If we perform our kind of game we should have no problems," he told Sport.

"Normally in this period is usually at -14 degrees or -15, but the temperature may be between -2 and -4. It is not going to be that cold."

Barcelona must win to ensure qualification for the next round and a victory would see them finish as group leaders.

Ibrahimovic: I Would Have Given The Ballon d’Or

‘Ibracadabra’ is revelling in his time at the Camp Nou, but confessed that he is still playing with stress

Zlatan Ibrahimovic congratulated his Barcelona attacking partner, Lionel Messi for picking up the Ballon d’Or but he also remarked that every Barca star deserved the accolade.

“I would have given the award to all the players of Barcelona because it is very difficult to win the treble,” he was quoted as saying by Sport.

Ibra then went on to admit that he is still feeling the pressure following his €66 million move to the Camp Nou from Inter in the summer and he has been playing with apprehension.

“I still feel a bit stressed out, but I can grow some more and play much better than what I’m showing now.

“I have had injuries that have prevented me from being 100%, but when I can go a full month without being sidelined, everything will be better and I will feel more confident.

“When you play with the players at Barca, they are capable of creating so many scoring opportunities that you have to be really focused to finish off those chances.

“Thanks to them, everything is fine because they help me a lot every day,” he concluded.

Ibrahimovic remains the Blaugrana’s leading goalscorer with ten goals, one more than Messi but one less than Pichichi leader, David Villa.

Arsenal Target Bojan Krkic - Report

The youngster is reportedly in Arsene Wenger's sights as he looks for a new striker

Arsenal could launch a bid for Barcelona youngster Bojan Krkic, according to The Daily Star.

The 19-year-old is reportedly keen to quit the Camp Nou after slipping further down the pecking order since the arrival of Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the summer.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger desperately needs reinforcement in his forward line, with Robin van Persie sidelined for up to five months with an ankle injury.

The Daily Star reports that Wenger feels he has been priced out of moves for Bordeaux's Marouane Chamakh, Toulouse's Andre-Pierre Gignac, Wolfsburg's Edin Dzeko and Inter's Mario Balotelli, and is therefore now considering turning to Krkic instead.

The Gunners are believed to have already made an initial enquiry for the Serbian-born Spaniard, and are apparently prepared to pay up to £8 million for the teenager.

However, Barca are said to favour a loan deal rather than the permanent move preferred by Arsenal.

Gallery Messi with his Ballon d'Or 2009 (06.12.2009)

Messi picks up the Ballon d'Or

Messi picks up the Ballon d'Or

Marc Guillén (special envoy) / Anna Segura

Leo Messi collected his 2009 Ballon d'Or this Sunday morning in a ceremony organised by France Football in Paris which confirmed him as this year's European Player of The Year.

The photo that everybody had been waiting for finally happened this morning when Leo Messi lifted the 2009 Ballon d'Or trophy. At a few minutes past 11.00 in the studios of the TF1 “Telefoot” programme, Barca's Argentine star finally received the award given by the France Football magazine.

Family support

In one of the most important days in his footballing career. Messi was not alone at the ceremony, as his brothers Rodrigo, Matías and sister Marisol,as well as Barca President Joan Laporta, and Vice President Albert Perrín accompanied him..



Thuram gives his congratulations

Messi was also congratulated in person by ex-teammate Lilian Thuram who came to the TF1 studios to pass on his good wishes to the new European Player of The Year. Thuram, who was at the club between 2006 and 2008, also exchanged words with Joan Laporta.



Now for the second!

Before the ceremony, Leo Messi had the opportunity to look through the latest edition of the France Football magazine which features a long interview with him in which he announces his intention: “to win the award a second time”, whilst explaining: “it's the way Barca play that has allowed me to win this award”.

Bojan Krkic Not Interested In Loan Transfer

The teenager will not entertain a short-term switch

Barcelona striker Bojan Krkic has insisted that if he is to leave the club during the January transfer window, then he is only interested in a permanent switch, and will not entertain a short-term loan move.

The Spanish international has found himself slip down the pecking order at the Camp Nou this season, following the arrival of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and the emergence of Pedro.

Sport reports that the player is becoming frustrated at his lack of action, and is considering a future away from the Catalan club, but is not keen on a temporary switch.

The 19-year old burst onto the scene in 2007 and has made over 100 appearances for the Blaugrana in his short time as part of the first team. He was regarded as the next player to become a World superstar to be produced by Barcelona’s youth system that developed the likes of Messi, Xavi, and Andres Iniesta.

However, Pep Guardiola has preferred to use Pedro Rodriguez, who has netted 10 goals in 20 appearances this season and is regarded as the understudy to the trio of Messi, Zlatan, and Thierry Henry.

Lionel Messi Collects Golden Ball Award; Thanks Teammates

The superstar is hopeful of having another incredible season, at both club and international level

2009 Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi collected his award in France this morning, and the gracious star was appreciative of the efforts of his team-mates that allowed him to be recognised for the honour.

The Argentine amassed 473 points to receive more than double the support of second placed Cristiano Ronaldo, and also well clear of his club colleague Xavi, who finished third.

During the ceremony, which was broadcast on French television, the 22-year old took the opportunity to ensure the Barcelona squad were thanked for their efforts.

He said, “I dedicate the Golden Ball to my colleagues, and I share this trophy with them. I want to thank my family, my friends, and my brothers who are always there for me.”

Messi also set his sights on winning the award again in 2010, and in doing so help Barcelona to even greater success than their Triplete-winning season of 2008/09.

He continued, “Hopefully I can win again, it would be great to win some more. But that depends on how good we are with Barcelona and how Argentina perform at the World Cup.”

‘The Flea’ also offered his opinion on Thierry Henry’s controversial handball that allowed France to progress to the World Cup in South Africa at Ireland’s expense.

“I do not know what I would have done instead,” he commented, before adding, “I think [Thierry] did the right thing, he apologized and we cannot put all of the blame on him.”

Alves And Messi Delighted With Deportivo Win

The Blaugrana duo want to keep on winning

Barcelona continued their dominance of La Liga with a 3-1 win at Deportivo La Coruna, and two of their stars enjoyed the night.

Speaking to Sport after the match, Messi said, "All the teams know us, and it gets harder to win games."

"We barely have time to rest, but our objective is always to win, starting with Dinamo Kiev."

Meanwhile, Daniel Alves paid tribute to Messi, saying, "That is why he won the Ballon d'Or, to give us goals and wins."

"We played with a lot of force and patience.

"We must continue in this vein."

Player Ratings: Deportivo La Coruna 1-3 Barcelona

Barcelona restored their five point lead over Real Madrid in the Primera Division after winning in the Riazor, and Goal.com's Anthony Wright was on hand to rate the players on show

Lionel Messi, Deportivo La Coruña, Barcelona (MARCA)

DEPORTIVO

Aranzubia: 7 - He could do nothing about the goals, but he made some great stops from the likes of Ibrahimovic and Messi during the first half.

Manuel Pablo: 7 - He should have closed Messi down quicker for the goal, but handled Henry very well. Generally very solid at the back.

Colotto: 6.5 - Struggling to deal with Messi for the majority of the match, and was partly guilty of leaving the Argentine and Ibrahimovic unmarked for the goals.

Lopo: 7 - Lopo was a rock at the back in the first half, cutting out a number of crosses and breaking up the visitors' attacks. Not quite as competent in the second half.

Filipe: 6 - Known for his rampaging runs down the left hand side but there was little evidence of this tonight. Did well in defence for the majority of the match but was beginning to get caught out near the end.

Rodriguez: 6 - He was popping up on either flank but had little impact in Deportivo's attacking moves

Antonio Tomas: 6.5 - Didn't allow the Barcelona midfield much time on the ball, and he was usually involved in Depor's rare moves into the attacking third.

Sergio: 6.5 - Like Antonio Tomas, he worked hard in the midfield and tried to stifle as many of the visitors' attacks as possible.

Guardado: 5.5 - Ineffective in attack. His crossing was poor, and this was particularly evident in the second half when he and Bodipo were through on goal and he sent the ball out for a goal kick.

Mista: 5.5 - Offside on a number of occasions and was fairly anonymous. There were few opportunities for Depor in the second half, but he passed up the best of them with a poor header.

Adrian: 7 - He grabbed the equaliser - while his header wasn't the best, it was well directed. Replaced in the 62nd minute.

Substitutes:

Juca: 5.5 - He was only involved in one real move of note, and his free kick was disappointing.

Bodipo: N/A - Only had 10 minutes to make an impact and couldn't settle himself in the match.

Alvarez: N/A - Brought on in the final minutes.


BARCELONA

Valdes: 5.5 - An aboslute howler for the goal, and could scarcely redeem himself as he had very little else to deal with.

Alves: 6.5 - A hit and miss evening for the Brazilian full back. Some of his crosses were on the money and he set up Messi for the opening goal, but on other occasions his delivery was poor.

Puyol: 6.5 - Didn't have to make any last ditch blocks as he did last week in a relatively trouble-free match.

Pique: 6.5 - Had almost nothing to do in the first half and was allowed to venture forward on the ball on a few occasions.

Abidal: 6.5 - Helped Henry on the left flank and set up Ibrahimovic with an excellent cross in the final stages, but didn't get forward as often as he usually does.

Xavi: 7 - Serene on the ball as usual and very rarely gave away the ball, but Deportivo did a good job of closing him down before he could pick out the perfect pass.

Busquets: 6 - His poor header gifted Adrian possession for the goal, but was otherwise good in possession.

Iniesta: 6.5 - A fairly quiet evening for the midfielder. Did a solid job in the middle of the pitch but there were few examples of his trademark runs into the box.

Messi: 8.5 - Wonderful swivel and shot for the first goal, and delivered a perfect header for the second. At the centre of everything positive about Barcelona.

Ibrahimovic: 7 - Linked up well with Messi and wrapped up the game with a first time effort in the final minutes.

Henry: 5.5 - Has a predilection for being offside and was otherwise fairly quiet as Manuel Pablo was equal to many of his moves.

Substitutes:

Pedro: 6.5 - Lively after he came on and did well to set up Messi's second goal.

Keita: N/A - No time to make an impact.

Deportivo La Coruna 1-3 Barcelona

Photo Gallery : Ibrahimovic, Filipe Luis, Deportivo La Coruña, Barcelona (MARCA)

Deportivo La Coruna - Barcelona - Lineups/Stats
La Liga - Fixtures/Results

Two sensational goals from Lionel Messi, and one from Zlatan Ibrahimovic were enough to ensure that Barcelona won a tricky fixture away at Deportivo La Coruna.

Barcelona went into the game with a poor recent record at the Riazor, and Pep Guardiola was taking no chances, putting out his strongest possible lineup, as did Depor.

The game started in lively fashion, with Barca dominating possession as expected, but Depor exhibiting their danger on the counter. Chances remained at a premium during the early stages though, with only a volley from Messi and an Ibrahimovic header coming close.

Barca continued to boss the play, and Messi was in thick of it, jinking past about four defenders on 20 minutes, before seeing his shot well saved by Daniel Aranzubia. 'La Pulga' was the most threatening player on the park, and it was no surprise when he got on the scoresheet on 26 minutes. Receiving the ball from Daniel Alves on the edge of the box, he turned brilliantly before firing an unstoppable shot into the bottom right hand corner, to give Barca the lead.

The Blaugrana showed no signs of letting up after scoring, and Depor were struggling to touch the ball at all. Messi was causing havoc, and Ibrahimovic should have done better when played through by the Argentine, but he failed to take it around Aranzubia. Then, on 38 minutes, completely against the run of play, Depor claimed an equalizer. Aranzubia's goal kick was headed into Adrian's path by Sergi Busquets, and the striker in turn headed past Valdes, much to the shock of Pep Guardiola. Valdes could certainly have done more to stop it, and it was a careless mistake from Barca that ruined all their earlier good work.

There was still time for one more chance in the first half, when Ibrahimovic's brilliant backheel released Messi, only for Aranzubia to come to the rescue once more and palm his shot away. That was the last major action of an exciting first half that provided plenty of positives, and some negatives, for both sides.

The second half started in familiar fashion to the first, with Barca controlling all the play, but still looking susceptible to the counter. For all their possession, however, the Blaugrana were not creating the same amount of chances as they were in the first, as fatigue from an eventful journey to A Coruna perhaps began to show.

On the hour mark, Miguel Angel Lotina made the first change of the match, taking Adrian off for Juca. For the first time, both sides were getting sloppy, with a number of misplaced passes preventing any serious threats at goal. In an effort to change that, Guardiola replaced Thierry Henry with Pedro, as the clock struck 70 minutes.

Depor continued to frustrate Barca as the match wore down, with Messi providing the only direct threat with his trademark dribbling. It looked as though the Blaugrana would struggle to find another goal, but then, with ten minutes remaining, the Ballon D'Or winner showed just why he won the award. Pedro did well to chip the ball into his path near the six yard box, and Messi showed another string to his bow, as he headed past Aranzubia into the bottom corner.

Depor continued to fight valiantly after going behind, but Barca still looked the more likely to score, with Messi coming close again with another header. However, with four minutes left, the home side wasted a glorious chance to equalize, as Guardado's square ball failed to find Bodipo, who would only have had Valdes to beat.

It was to be a costly miss, as Barca scored their third seconds later, to seal the victory. On a rare foray forward, Eric Abidal played an excellent ball into the box, where Ibrahimovic was waiting to smash home a sublime first time effort into the roof of the net.

That proved to be the final action of the match, as Barca claimed a hard-fought but well deserved win, to maintain their five point lead on top of the table.