Messi injured as Barcelona beat Almeria
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E-mail Xinhua, September 29, 2013
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An injury to Lionel Messi put a damper on Barcelona's comfortable 2-0 win over Almeria. |
Leo Messi opened the scoring for FC Barcelona before having to leave the pitch with a suspected torn muscle in his right thigh as the BBVA Primera Liga leaders had to work hard in order to defeat a hard-working Almeria 2-0 and make it seven wins from the first seven games of the season in the BBVA Primera Liga.
It is the first time the Catalans have ever enjoyed such a positive beginning to a camapaign.
Barca coach Tata Martinez continued his policy of squad rotations against a side which has conceded at least two goals in every game this season.
Neymar was rested, along with Xavi Hernandez, while Marc Bartra replaced the injured Javier Mascherano in central defense, while Cesc Fabrigas and Alexis Sanchez were also in the starting 11.
Andres Iniesta had the first chance of the game after five minutes, but chances were few and far between until Messi opened the scoring on 20 minutes with a magnificent shot from outside of the Almeria area after losing his marker. The Argentinean's shot curled into the corner of the net giving Almeria keeper Esteban no chance.
That was virtually all Messi did in the game as he was forced to limp off after half an hour with a muscle injury to be replaced by Xavi.
The change affected Barca, while Almeria grew in confidence and could have leveled thanks to winger Suso, on loan from Liverpool and former Barca-B team player, Rodri, but on both occasions, Victor Valdes was equal to it.
Barca had struggled in the closing minutes of the first half, but the second period saw them come out with a different mindset and Martino's side began to move the ball around fluidly with Xavi taking control of the midfield.
Adriano scored the second of the game 10 minutes after the break after Cesc picked up his well timed run in to the Almeria penalty area.
That knocked the wind out of Almeria and Barca were in complete control and although they created few chances young central defender, Bartra, almost adding his second goal in less than a week, but shot into the side netting.
Substitute Cristian Tello almost ended the game with a third goal for the visitors shortly before the final whistle, but the most important thing was the three points.
Meanwhile Messi will have tests on Sunday to determine the extent of his injury and Barca will be keeping their fingers crossed it is not serious.
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