Messi Magic Destroys Espanyol

A beautiful hat-trick from Lionel Messi ensured Luis Enrique’s men put up an astonishing display as Barca flogged Espanyol 5-1 to secure a comprehensive Catalan derby win.
After the win, FlyBarca rates the Barcelona players according to the level of their performances.

Although, Espanyol started as the brighter team and scored an early goal, Barcelona didn’t give up as they kept on pushing for a win.
Fortunately for the Blaugranas, starman Leo Messi was in top form as he tormented the Espanyol defence and bagged a hat-trick to ensure a magnificent victory for his side.

Barcelona 5-1 Espanyol Player Rating

Claudio Bravo: 7.5
Didn’t have much to do as usual but his defending abilities and instincts were crucial as he made a wonderful sliding tackle in the first half to deny Caicedo a goal which might have killed the game.
Dani Alves: 7.5
It seems the original Dani is back. Has really improved his game lately and crossed the ball only when it mattered most. Linked up well with Messi and Rakitic.
Javier Mascherano: 7.5
Another solid display from the Versatile Argentine. Executed his tackles well and his passing was sublime. Covered up for Pique anytime the spaniard overlaps.
Gerard Pique: 8.0
Has really up his game recently. Was solid but could have done better when marking Sergio Garcia for Espanyol first goal as he was beaten easily. Sealed the win for Barca after scoring the third.
Jordi Alba: 8.5
The pacey spaniard didn’t at all disappoint. Was very lively throughout the game but missed a great chance in the first half to deny Messi a fine assist. However, his assist for Pedro’s goal was second to none.
Ivan Rakitic: 8.0
Wow! His movement and passing were magnificent. Was like a perfectly flowing fluid. Has totally gotten the Barca style. Assisted Pique’s goal.
Sergio Busquets: 7.0
Wasn’t awful though, but was at fault for Espanyol’s goal after hesitating to release the ball on time. Was vindicated by Messi’s form.
Xavi Hernandez: 7.5
Played the whole game and was the heart of the Midfield. Assisted Messi’s first goal.
Luis Suarez: 7.5
Still yet to blend with his new team-mates as he failed to register his first Liga goal. Came close though. Got the assist for Messi’s second goal.
Neymar Jr: 8.0
Terrorised the Espanyol defence with his tricks. Opened space for other players to exploit. Gave Espanyol defender Sevilla a dribble he’ll never forget during the dying stages of the game.
Lionel Messi: 10.0
Whoa! Words can’t describe the Argentine. It’s so unfortunate that 10 is the highest possible rating. Had a free kick denied by the cross bar, was denied an assist by Jordi Alba after throwing what i call a ‘Messi Final Pass’, but was rewarded with a well taken hat-trick (His 3rd in four games), a pure one, with the first goal unbelievable. Was a total 10.
SUBS
Andres Iniesta: 7.5
Came on for Rakitic in the second half and maintained the perfect flow of the game.
Pedro Rodriguez: 8.5
The old Pedro returned. Spent just above 15 minutes in the game, scored a goal and created Messi’s third. Was marvellous.
Jeremy Mathieu: 7.0
Came on late for Sergio Busquets but didn’t have much to do as the game was already done.
COACH
Luis Enrique: 9.0
Fielded a strong line up. Got his tactics right. Was patient and that paid off. Kudos!

HAVE YOU READ:
Barca 5-1 Espanyol Match Report
Girona 0-1 Barca B Match Report