http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Gerard-c14664 Pique have pointed out that it was their control of the ball that enabled them to come away with all the three points against Spartak Moscow last night.
A brace by Messi and another goal by http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Dani-Alves-c9869 were enough for Barca to grab the win in Moscow and qualify to the last-16 of the Champions League.
Barcelona knew the importance of this match as they set up a strong starting line-up. The weather was also another issue for the club. Teams who always travel to http://www.senore.com/Football-soccer/Russia-c2991 experience adverse weather and mostly play on artificial pitches.
Barca managed to overcome all those challenges as they took control of the game early on. On the other hand, Spartak just sat deeper and planned on the counter-attacks.
It was the strategy of the Catalans that prevailed at the end of the night as an early goal by Alves gave them the perfect start they needed to get against their rivals.
Another two goals by Messi sealed the fate of the Russians as the Spaniards finished the first-half with a convincing three-goal advantage.
Looking back on the encounter with Spartak, Messi admitted that it was not an easy task for them and feels Barca were lucky to take advantage of their chances.
“This game wasn't easy for us and we were lucky we were able to convert our chances, keep control of the ball and find space, and do what we failed to do when we played Spartak last time.”
The Argentine also mentioned how his side always gets ready for their games and the fact they set up their system in the same way, regardless of who their opponents are.
“We prepared for this match like we do for every game. We always play in the same style, whatever the opposition.”
Fellow team-mate, Gerard Pique, also concurred with Messi. He believes the early breakthrough Barca got was what made the difference in Moscow.
“We were lucky that we managed to score three goals in the first half and we controlled the game quite easily.”
The centre-back also praised Messi and thinks that he is a phenomenal player.
“Lionel Messi was fantastic today, like he always is. I think he is the best player in the world.”
Barca have now qualified to the second-round with one match still left to play.
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