A young Bangladeshi architect has earned fame after his digital drawing of footballer Lionel Messi was matched in real life six years later.

Suhas Nahian's 2013 artwork shows Messi dribbling past a group of players in green and white, leaning his head forward as one of the defenders grabs his red-and-blue Barcelona jersey.

Photos of Messi shot during a recent match against Real Betis show him in an almost identical pose, complete with one defender on the ground as the Argentinian charges through.

"I painted something 6 years ago, and football gods made the image come true," Suhas, 29, said on Instagram.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BvLcs3lHAX7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading&amp;utm_campaign=embed_locale_control" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">I painted something 6 years ago, and football gods made the image come true last night! Swap for the painting from 2013 and the photo from last night’s match! #leomessi #messi #fcbarcelona #goat #lionelmessi #laliga</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/suhasnahian/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading&amp;utm_campaign=embed_locale_control" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Suhas Nahian</a> (@suhasnahian) on <time datetime="2019-03-19T05:54:13+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Mar 18, 2019 at 10:54pm PDT</time>
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He told AFP that he watched the La Liga match, which saw Messi score a hat-trick as Barcelona won 4-1, but noticed nothing exceptional until a friend phoned him and excitedly pointed out the striking similarities.

"I looked back and found those are actually very similar," he said. "It was fascinating. I was surprised."&nbsp;

Suhas, who now owns an architecture firm, said the digital painting he drew as a student in 2013 was shared by a football fan page called Plaantik at that time.

"I am glad my only painting brought me so much fame, as it has been published in many Spanish, Argentine and Indian media," he said.

Suhas said he did not choose Betis's white and green jersey for his artwork consciously.&nbsp;

"Barcelona's jersey is very vibrant with blue and red, so from the point of colour I wanted to paint the rest of the painting in green so that Messi stays in focus,” he said.

"So I chose this green and white jersey, not specifically thinking of Betis but from the sense of colour."

Suhas said his artwork was part of a football-themed series that he wanted to do including Messi's dribbling, Cristiano Ronaldo's header and Xavi's turn.

"I am a Barcelona fan but I admire all great players. This is why I wanted to draw this football series. But after the painting on Messi's dribbling, I could not complete the rest," he said.

A young Bangladeshi architect has earned fame after his digital drawing of footballer Lionel Messi was matched in real life six years later. Suhas Nahian's 2013 artwork shows Messi dribbling past a group of players in green and white, leaning his head forward as one of the defenders grabs his red-and-blue Barcelona jersey.

A young Bangladeshi architect has earned fame after his digital drawing of footballer Lionel Messi was matched in real life six years later. Suhas Nahian's 2013 artwork shows Messi dribbling past a group of players in green and white, leaning his head forward as one of the defenders grabs his red-and-blue Barcelona jersey. Photos of Messi shot during a recent match against Real Betis show him in an almost identical pose, complete with one defender on the ground as the Argentinian charges through. "I painted something 6 years ago, and football gods made the image come true," Suhas, 29, said on Instagram. View this post on Instagram I painted something 6 years ago, and football gods made the image come true last night! Swap for the painting from 2013 and the photo from last night’s match! #leomessi #messi #fcbarcelona #goat #lionelmessi #laliga A post shared by Suhas Nahian (@suhasnahian) on Mar 18, 2019 at 10:54pm PDT × He told AFP that he watched the La Liga match, which saw Messi score a hat-trick as Barcelona won 4-1, but noticed nothing exceptional until a friend phoned him and excitedly pointed out the striking similarities. "I looked back and found those are actually very similar," he said. "It was fascinating. I was surprised." Suhas, who now owns an architecture firm, said the digital painting he drew as a student in 2013 was shared by a football fan page called Plaantik at that time. "I am glad my only painting brought me so much fame, as it has been published in many Spanish, Argentine and Indian media," he said. Suhas said he did not choose Betis's white and green jersey for his artwork consciously. "Barcelona's jersey is very vibrant with blue and red, so from the point of colour I wanted to paint the rest of the painting in green so that Messi stays in focus,” he said. "So I chose this green and white jersey, not specifically thinking of Betis but from the sense of colour." Suhas said his artwork was part of a football-themed series that he wanted to do including Messi's dribbling, Cristiano Ronaldo's header and Xavi's turn. "I am a Barcelona fan but I admire all great players. This is why I wanted to draw this football series. But after the painting on Messi's dribbling, I could not complete the rest," he said.

Hand of God? Bangladeshi's Messi drawing comes alive

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Lionel+Messi">Lionel Messi</a> will start Friday's friendly against Venezuela in Madrid as he makes his return for Argentina following a self-imposed eight-month exile, coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed.

Scaloni said that Messi would line up alongside Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez and Atlanta United's Gonzalo Martinez in attack as he revealed his full starting team.

"It's a joy for me and for everyone that he's back," Scaloni told a news conference on Thursday.

"Now what remains is try and get the team to play along with him and get the best out of him. We're all very happy that he's back."

"It is the others who have to take that step so that Argentina can return to the level it had," added Scaloni, who replaced Jorge Sampaoli as coach following the last-16 defeat by France at the 2018 World Cup.

Messi has missed six friendlies since the tournament in Russia but many believe he will be an essential part of the team that travels to Brazil for the Copa America, which kicks off June 14.

"We have a way of playing and feeling football in these six games we've had. We're not going to change it, that (Messi) is coming is more incentive for us and another addition."

"We've played different systems and we're going to do it in the same way, added to his great quality," Scaloni added.

"But we need the rest, who are all top players and key figures at their clubs, to give us that bit extra to try and be a great team."

Scaloni refused to be drawn on whether Messi would also travel with the squad for next week's friendly against Morocco in Tangier, but said he would not risk the Barcelona forward's fitness.

The news that Messi would be involved for the game at Atletico Madrid's Wanda Metropolitano ground pleased Venezuela coach Rafael Dudamel.

"The presence of the best player in the world lifts the game's expectation," Dudamel said.

"For us to take on Argentina is a good way to see how we stack up. The return of Lionel Messi makes the demands on us extremely high."

Lionel Messi will start Friday's friendly against Venezuela in Madrid as he makes his return for Argentina following a self-imposed eight-month exile, coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed.

Lionel Messi will start Friday's friendly against Venezuela in Madrid as he makes his return for Argentina following a self-imposed eight-month exile, coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed. Scaloni said that Messi would line up alongside Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martinez and Atlanta United's Gonzalo Martinez in attack as he revealed his full starting team. "It's a joy for me and for everyone that he's back," Scaloni told a news conference on Thursday. "Now what remains is try and get the team to play along with him and get the best out of him. We're all very happy that he's back." "It is the others who have to take that step so that Argentina can return to the level it had," added Scaloni, who replaced Jorge Sampaoli as coach following the last-16 defeat by France at the 2018 World Cup. Messi has missed six friendlies since the tournament in Russia but many believe he will be an essential part of the team that travels to Brazil for the Copa America, which kicks off June 14. "We have a way of playing and feeling football in these six games we've had. We're not going to change it, that (Messi) is coming is more incentive for us and another addition." "We've played different systems and we're going to do it in the same way, added to his great quality," Scaloni added. "But we need the rest, who are all top players and key figures at their clubs, to give us that bit extra to try and be a great team." Scaloni refused to be drawn on whether Messi would also travel with the squad for next week's friendly against Morocco in Tangier, but said he would not risk the Barcelona forward's fitness. The news that Messi would be involved for the game at Atletico Madrid's Wanda Metropolitano ground pleased Venezuela coach Rafael Dudamel. "The presence of the best player in the world lifts the game's expectation," Dudamel said. "For us to take on Argentina is a good way to see how we stack up. The return of Lionel Messi makes the demands on us extremely high."

Lionel Messi to start Venezuela friendly on Argentina return

Argentina captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=lionel+messi">Lionel Messi</a> trained on Monday (March 18) with the national squad for the first time since last year's World Cup in Russia at Real Madrid's training centre in Madrid.

The Barcelona star will play in at least one of Argentina's friendlies against Venezuela and Morocco this month, coach Lionel Scaloni said on March 7.

The Barcelona forward has not played for his country since their last-16 exit at the hands of eventual champions France, opting to take a sabbatical after what was a disappointing tournament for the five-times Ballon d'Or winner.

Messi is Argentina's leading goal scorer with 65 goals but he is often criticised for not reproducing his club form for the national side.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi trained on Monday (March 18) with the national squad for the first time since last year's World Cup in Russia at Real Madrid's training centre in Madrid.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi trained on Monday (March 18) with the national squad for the first time since last year's World Cup in Russia at Real Madrid's training centre in Madrid. The Barcelona star will play in at least one of Argentina's friendlies against Venezuela and Morocco this month, coach Lionel Scaloni said on March 7. The Barcelona forward has not played for his country since their last-16 exit at the hands of eventual champions France, opting to take a sabbatical after what was a disappointing tournament for the five-times Ballon d'Or winner. Messi is Argentina's leading goal scorer with 65 goals but he is often criticised for not reproducing his club form for the national side.

Lionel Messi trains with Argentina for the first time since World Cup

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick of the highest quality as Barcelona avenged their defeat by Real Betis earlier in the season to move 10 points clear at the top of La Liga.

The Barcelona captain was in superb form scoring his 51st hat-trick with the first goal being a 20-yard free-kick before he converted Luis Suarez's backheel pass with a toe-poked strike.

Suarez scored a fine individual effort while Loren Moron grabbed Betis' only goal with a superb finish.

Messi, however, was applauded by Real Betis fans after scoring a brilliant third goal and thanked the opposition supporters for the kind gesture.

“I don’t remember being applauded by rival fans for a goal before. I am very grateful for the response of the supporters,” Messi said.

“I don’t know, I was lucky that both of them went in but above all we got the three points. We knew that we had a good opportunity to put a little distance between ourselves and Atlético and we couldn’t fail.”

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The Betis fans just had to applaud it.....<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> <a href="https://t.co/tMVEeIKdkd">pic.twitter.com/tMVEeIKdkd</a>
— Craig (@Craig_m93) <a href="https://twitter.com/Craig_m93/status/1107400250229166081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It was yet another sensational performance from the GOAT, as it was a club-record 477th win in a Barcelona shirt.

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick of the highest quality as Barcelona avenged their defeat by Real Betis earlier in the season to move 10 points clear at the top of La Liga.

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick of the highest quality as Barcelona avenged their defeat by Real Betis earlier in the season to move 10 points clear at the top of La Liga. The Barcelona captain was in superb form scoring his 51st hat-trick with the first goal being a 20-yard free-kick before he converted Luis Suarez's backheel pass with a toe-poked strike. Suarez scored a fine individual effort while Loren Moron grabbed Betis' only goal with a superb finish. Messi, however, was applauded by Real Betis fans after scoring a brilliant third goal and thanked the opposition supporters for the kind gesture. “I don’t remember being applauded by rival fans for a goal before. I am very grateful for the response of the supporters,” Messi said. “I don’t know, I was lucky that both of them went in but above all we got the three points. We knew that we had a good opportunity to put a little distance between ourselves and Atlético and we couldn’t fail.” The Betis fans just had to applaud it.....#Messi pic.twitter.com/tMVEeIKdkd — Craig (@Craig_m93) March 17, 2019 × It was yet another sensational performance from the GOAT, as it was a club-record 477th win in a Barcelona shirt.

Lionel Messi's hat-trick earns standing ovation from Betis fans, Barca captain says 'very grateful'

David Beckham has less than a year before his new Major League football team, Inter Miami, takes the field and is finally turning his focus to bringing in players with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo on his mind.

When Beckham announced he would create an MLS franchise in Miami, five years ago, there was speculation that he would look to entice some of the biggest names in the game with talk of Messi or Ronaldo possibly ending their careers in Florida.

But, although Juventus forward Ronaldo is 34 and Barcelona's Messi will be 32 in June, former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Beckham knows it will be tough to get them to move - even if he has not given up on the prospect.

"Everyone has their wish list - everyone does! But if you look at the way Leo and Cristiano are still playing, even at what you might think is the later stage of their careers, I don't see it ending for them," he told a small group of reporters.

"They’re playing at such a high level that it’s hard to see them leaving the clubs they are at. But we will see. You never know what can happen in football."

Beckham, who played for MLS side LA Galaxy later in his career, and his small staff are beginning the process of identifying players and seeking to bring them in for the 2020 season.

"As an organisation, as a club, we are starting to look at players, and possibilities, at what is possible. We’ve got a great team here and we’ll start piecing the things together. But we have to do that quick because it’s only a year away," he said.

Beckham's contacts in the game will surely help him attract talent and he also needs to find a manager and coaching staff for his club.

Among those the 43-year-old former England captain has turned to for advice about his new role as an owner is former Manchester United chief executive David Gill.

"I’ve been speaking to people over that time. People like David Gill, who is someone who has a huge amount of experience at Manchester United, asking him about the job he did there," he said.

"But there are also other clubs and football people I’ve been around over my career and been able to have and gain experience from. I also have some great partners here in Miami, who understand the U.S market and the MLS.

"It’s a different world from the European leagues but it’s catching up really quickly and the excitement is there."

SALFORD CONNECTION

As well as getting his club off the ground, including negotiating a deal for a training complex and stadium in Fort Lauderdale [nL1N2111IC], Beckham has also joined his fellow 'Class of 92' United alumni including Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville, in taking a ten percent ownership stake in National League (fifth tier) English club Salford City.

The former midfielder says it is possible that the two clubs will co-operate, with academy and player development two areas that could see joint work.

"Who knows? With Salford the hard work has been done over the last few years, with bringing the club up to the level they’ve got to now. The lads have done such a great job and for myself to be part of that now is great," he said.

"There could be a crossover. The academy system is such an important part of it. Everybody in Europe knows how important that system is.

"To have an academy system that utilises the talent that runs through Miami is such important part, not just of our organisation but the entire MLS and the future of the sport in general."

David Beckham has less than a year before his new Major League football team, Inter Miami, takes the field and is finally turning his focus to bringing in players with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo on his mind.

David Beckham has less than a year before his new Major League football team, Inter Miami, takes the field and is finally turning his focus to bringing in players with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo on his mind. When Beckham announced he would create an MLS franchise in Miami, five years ago, there was speculation that he would look to entice some of the biggest names in the game with talk of Messi or Ronaldo possibly ending their careers in Florida. But, although Juventus forward Ronaldo is 34 and Barcelona's Messi will be 32 in June, former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Beckham knows it will be tough to get them to move - even if he has not given up on the prospect. "Everyone has their wish list - everyone does! But if you look at the way Leo and Cristiano are still playing, even at what you might think is the later stage of their careers, I don't see it ending for them," he told a small group of reporters. "They’re playing at such a high level that it’s hard to see them leaving the clubs they are at. But we will see. You never know what can happen in football." Beckham, who played for MLS side LA Galaxy later in his career, and his small staff are beginning the process of identifying players and seeking to bring them in for the 2020 season. "As an organisation, as a club, we are starting to look at players, and possibilities, at what is possible. We’ve got a great team here and we’ll start piecing the things together. But we have to do that quick because it’s only a year away," he said. Beckham's contacts in the game will surely help him attract talent and he also needs to find a manager and coaching staff for his club. Among those the 43-year-old former England captain has turned to for advice about his new role as an owner is former Manchester United chief executive David Gill. "I’ve been speaking to people over that time. People like David Gill, who is someone who has a huge amount of experience at Manchester United, asking him about the job he did there," he said. "But there are also other clubs and football people I’ve been around over my career and been able to have and gain experience from. I also have some great partners here in Miami, who understand the U.S market and the MLS. "It’s a different world from the European leagues but it’s catching up really quickly and the excitement is there." SALFORD CONNECTION As well as getting his club off the ground, including negotiating a deal for a training complex and stadium in Fort Lauderdale [nL1N2111IC], Beckham has also joined his fellow 'Class of 92' United alumni including Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville, in taking a ten percent ownership stake in National League (fifth tier) English club Salford City. The former midfielder says it is possible that the two clubs will co-operate, with academy and player development two areas that could see joint work. "Who knows? With Salford the hard work has been done over the last few years, with bringing the club up to the level they’ve got to now. The lads have done such a great job and for myself to be part of that now is great," he said. "There could be a crossover. The academy system is such an important part of it. Everybody in Europe knows how important that system is. "To have an academy system that utilises the talent that runs through Miami is such important part, not just of our organisation but the entire MLS and the future of the sport in general."

Dreaming of Messi and Ronaldo, Beckham looks for Miami signings

Lionel Messi lead the way with two goals and two assists as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-outplay-bayern-munich-to-reach-quarter-finals-203183">Barcelona reached the quarter-finals</a> of the Champions League in style by thrashing Olympique Lyonnais 5-1 at home on Wednesday and advancing by the same scoreline on aggregate.

Barca captain Messi opened the scoring with a "Panenka" penalty chipped straight down the middle in the 17th minute after Luis Suarez was fouled in the area, putting the home side ahead in the tie after a goalless first leg in France.

Suarez then rounded Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes to lay on a perfect pass for the unmarked Philippe Coutinho to nudge into an open net and double Barca's lead, although Lyon hauled themselves back into contention with a second-half strike from Lucas Tousart.

Messi soon killed off any hopes of an unlikely comeback from the French side, however, carving his way through the defence to score in the 78th minute before toying with Lyon's back line twice more and laying off passes for Gerard Pique and then Ousmane Dembele to complete the rout.

"We played a great first half, then from a moment's distraction it was 2-1 and we had five or 10 delicate minutes," said Barca striker Suarez.

"We always knew it would be like this. The important thing is that we got the third goal and then we were far calmer."

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde had warned his side of complacency after Paris St Germain and Real Madrid's surprise exits, and his words carried more weight after Atletico Madrid were knocked out by Juventus despite a 2-0 first leg win.

His side were in a more vulnerable position as a score draw would have sent them out, and they began the game as if they meant business, with Messi firing an early shot which Lopes had to beat away for a corner.

Lyon's Lopes had to be taken off injured later in the first half, leaving the field in tears after taking a blow to the face, with Mathieu Gorgelin replacing him and making his Champions League debut.

Barca looked unsettled for a brief period after Tousart's goal had put Lyon one goal away from knocking the Catalans out, and the home side defended with an air of panic.

But Messi soon eased their nerves, toying with Lyon's defence before releasing a shot too powerful for Gorgelin to stop.

He continued to torment the visitors, gifting defender Pique a sliding tap-in with a beautiful pass and then setting up substitute Dembele.

Barca reached the last eight of Europe's elite competition for the 12th consecutive season and will be Spain's only representatives in Friday's quarter-final draw.

Lyon goalscorer Tousart had little complaint about the final result and said his side were powerless to deal with Messi.

"We have to concede they were better than us. We weren’t up to the challenge and we were up against a great team, and in the end we were well beaten," he said.

"There was no anti-Messi plan, and it's so difficult to defend against a player of his quality. He has instinctive talent."

Lyon coach Bruno Genesio added: "Tonight Messi was in Champions League mode. He's a genius and can do things that nobody else can. Sometimes he is just unstoppable."

Lionel Messi lead the way with two goals and two assists as Barcelona reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League in style by thrashing Olympique Lyonnais 5-1 at home on Wednesday and advancing by the same scoreline on aggregate.

Lionel Messi lead the way with two goals and two assists as Barcelona reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League in style by thrashing Olympique Lyonnais 5-1 at home on Wednesday and advancing by the same scoreline on aggregate. Barca captain Messi opened the scoring with a "Panenka" penalty chipped straight down the middle in the 17th minute after Luis Suarez was fouled in the area, putting the home side ahead in the tie after a goalless first leg in France. Suarez then rounded Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes to lay on a perfect pass for the unmarked Philippe Coutinho to nudge into an open net and double Barca's lead, although Lyon hauled themselves back into contention with a second-half strike from Lucas Tousart. Messi soon killed off any hopes of an unlikely comeback from the French side, however, carving his way through the defence to score in the 78th minute before toying with Lyon's back line twice more and laying off passes for Gerard Pique and then Ousmane Dembele to complete the rout. "We played a great first half, then from a moment's distraction it was 2-1 and we had five or 10 delicate minutes," said Barca striker Suarez. "We always knew it would be like this. The important thing is that we got the third goal and then we were far calmer." Barca coach Ernesto Valverde had warned his side of complacency after Paris St Germain and Real Madrid's surprise exits, and his words carried more weight after Atletico Madrid were knocked out by Juventus despite a 2-0 first leg win. His side were in a more vulnerable position as a score draw would have sent them out, and they began the game as if they meant business, with Messi firing an early shot which Lopes had to beat away for a corner. Lyon's Lopes had to be taken off injured later in the first half, leaving the field in tears after taking a blow to the face, with Mathieu Gorgelin replacing him and making his Champions League debut. Barca looked unsettled for a brief period after Tousart's goal had put Lyon one goal away from knocking the Catalans out, and the home side defended with an air of panic. But Messi soon eased their nerves, toying with Lyon's defence before releasing a shot too powerful for Gorgelin to stop. He continued to torment the visitors, gifting defender Pique a sliding tap-in with a beautiful pass and then setting up substitute Dembele. Barca reached the last eight of Europe's elite competition for the 12th consecutive season and will be Spain's only representatives in Friday's quarter-final draw. Lyon goalscorer Tousart had little complaint about the final result and said his side were powerless to deal with Messi. "We have to concede they were better than us. We weren’t up to the challenge and we were up against a great team, and in the end we were well beaten," he said. "There was no anti-Messi plan, and it's so difficult to defend against a player of his quality. He has instinctive talent." Lyon coach Bruno Genesio added: "Tonight Messi was in Champions League mode. He's a genius and can do things that nobody else can. Sometimes he is just unstoppable."

Champions League: Messi's double strike crushes Olympique Lyonnais; Barcelona reach quarter-finals

Who is better, Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo? Champions League will decide

Juventus forward <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-won-five-champions-leagues-and-these-guys-zero-says-ronaldo-after-defeat-to-atletico-madrid-198786">Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed</a> a hat-trick against his favourite opponents Atletico Madrid as the Italians overturned a two-goal first-leg deficit to win 3-0 and reached the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-want-to-compare-real-madrid-with-juventus-says-cristiano-ronaldo-172952">Ronaldo blasted home</a> the decisive goal from a penalty with four minutes left to seal a 3-2 overall triumph having made the breakthrough in the 27th minute and levelled the aggregate score three minutes after halftime with another towering header.

It was his eighth hat-trick in the Champions League, pulling him level with Barcelona's Lionel Messi, and took the Portugal international's tally in his favourite club competition, where he is the all-time leading scorer, to 124.

The former Real Madrid player, aiming to win the Champions League for the sixth time with his third different club, having also lifted the trophy with Manchester United, took his tally against Atletico to 25 goals in 33 matches in all competitions.

"This was why Juventus brought me here, to help do things that they have never done before," said Ronaldo, now 34. "This is the mentality you need to win in the Champions League."

Shell-shocked Atletico failed to muster a shot on target as they paid the price for an ultra-cautious approach by defensive-minded coach Diego Simeone in the last-16 second leg tie.

"Simply an epic match," said Juve's Giorgio Chiellini. "The best way to celebrate my 500th appearance for the club."

Defender Chiellini had the ball in the visitors' net after just four minutes following a goalmouth scramble but it was disallowed for foul by Ronaldo on goalkeeper Jan Oblak.

The Serie A side bombarded the Atletico area with crosses but made little headway against a packed defence until Federico Bernardeschi switched to the left and floated a cross to the far post where Ronaldo outjumped Juanfran to head in.

With Atletico making little effort to look for the away goal that could have changed the complexion of the tie, Juventus continued to press forward.

Bernardeschi curled a free kick over the crossbar and also produced an ambitious bicycle kick which flew wide before Chiellini had a header tipped over by Oblak.

Atletico's first real chance fell to on-loan striker Alvaro Morata who got between two defenders to meet Koke's cross from the right only to head over.

Juve went straight back on the attack after the break and quickly levelled the aggregate score at 2-2.

Ronaldo met Joao Cancelo's cross with another powerful header and although Oblak clawed the ball away, goal line technology showed that it had crossed the line by centimetres and the referee signalled a goal.

Atletico brought on Vitolo and Angel Correa in an attempt to add more bite to their attack but to no avail.

With extra-time looming, Bernardeschi powered into the area and was pushed in the back by Correa, leaving Ronaldo to blast home the penalty to the delight of the Juve supporters.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed a hat-trick against his favourite opponents Atletico Madrid as the Italians overturned a two-goal first-leg deficit to win 3-0 and reached the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed a hat-trick against his favourite opponents Atletico Madrid as the Italians overturned a two-goal first-leg deficit to win 3-0 and reached the Champions League quarter-finals on Tuesday. Ronaldo blasted home the decisive goal from a penalty with four minutes left to seal a 3-2 overall triumph having made the breakthrough in the 27th minute and levelled the aggregate score three minutes after halftime with another towering header. It was his eighth hat-trick in the Champions League, pulling him level with Barcelona's Lionel Messi, and took the Portugal international's tally in his favourite club competition, where he is the all-time leading scorer, to 124. The former Real Madrid player, aiming to win the Champions League for the sixth time with his third different club, having also lifted the trophy with Manchester United, took his tally against Atletico to 25 goals in 33 matches in all competitions. "This was why Juventus brought me here, to help do things that they have never done before," said Ronaldo, now 34. "This is the mentality you need to win in the Champions League." Shell-shocked Atletico failed to muster a shot on target as they paid the price for an ultra-cautious approach by defensive-minded coach Diego Simeone in the last-16 second leg tie. "Simply an epic match," said Juve's Giorgio Chiellini. "The best way to celebrate my 500th appearance for the club." Defender Chiellini had the ball in the visitors' net after just four minutes following a goalmouth scramble but it was disallowed for foul by Ronaldo on goalkeeper Jan Oblak. The Serie A side bombarded the Atletico area with crosses but made little headway against a packed defence until Federico Bernardeschi switched to the left and floated a cross to the far post where Ronaldo outjumped Juanfran to head in. With Atletico making little effort to look for the away goal that could have changed the complexion of the tie, Juventus continued to press forward. Bernardeschi curled a free kick over the crossbar and also produced an ambitious bicycle kick which flew wide before Chiellini had a header tipped over by Oblak. Atletico's first real chance fell to on-loan striker Alvaro Morata who got between two defenders to meet Koke's cross from the right only to head over. Juve went straight back on the attack after the break and quickly levelled the aggregate score at 2-2. Ronaldo met Joao Cancelo's cross with another powerful header and although Oblak clawed the ball away, goal line technology showed that it had crossed the line by centimetres and the referee signalled a goal. Atletico brought on Vitolo and Angel Correa in an attempt to add more bite to their attack but to no avail. With extra-time looming, Bernardeschi powered into the area and was pushed in the back by Correa, leaving Ronaldo to blast home the penalty to the delight of the Juve supporters.

Champions League: Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick against Atletico Madrid powers Juventus into quarter-finals

Lionel Messi created a goal and scored another as Barcelona came from behind to beat struggling Rayo Vallecano 3-1 at home on Saturday and stay seven points clear at the top of La Liga.

Rayo, who have now lost their last 12 games against Barca, took a shock lead midway through the first half when forward Raul de Thomas -- who is on loan from Real Madrid -- ran past two defenders before arrowing a shot into the bottom corner.

The Madrid side's unlikely lead at the Nou Camp lasted a quarter of an hour and ended when Messi whipped in a free kick for Gerard Pique to appear unmarked and head home.

Barca won a penalty early in the second half when Luis Suarez was fouled and Messi converted to put the league leaders in front and the Uruguayan forward made sure of the points with a simple finish from close range in the 82nd minute.

Coach Ernesto Valverde started without Ousmane Dembele and Ivan Rakitic but fielded an otherwise first-choice starting 11 even with a Champions League last-16 second leg against Olympique Lyonnais coming up on Wednesday.

Record signing Philippe Coutinho started instead of Dembele but yet again failed to dovetail with Suarez and Messi in attack and missed the target with both chances which fell his way.

France international Dembele was introduced at the start of the second half for midfielder Arthur Melo and Barca immediately looked more incisive down the right hand side, from which Suarez earned the penalty that Messi converted.

Coutinho was taken off with 10 minutes remaining and received a smattering of boos from the Barca fans, and his replacement Rakitic had an instant impact, darting into the area to reach a pass and promptly laying it off to Suarez to score.

The win, which followed successive victories over Real Madrid in the league and Copa del Rey, restored Barca's seven-point gap over nearest challengers Atletico Madrid, who earned a 1-0 victory at home to Leganes.

Rayo are 19th in the standings and two points from escaping the drop zone as the pressure mounts on coach Michel.

"We have had a very tough run of games, in theory today's should have been easier but we know that these games are very difficult to play," Pique told reporters.

Barca coach Valverde also emphasised how tough the match was.

"The game was hard from the outset and became even harder, De Thomas scored a goal out of absolutely nothing," he said.

"I give a lot of value to every win, it's important to keep stringing together victories. We weren't able to take the lead which is what we should be looking to do but the positive thing is the team adapted very well."

Lionel Messi created a goal and scored another as Barcelona came from behind to beat struggling Rayo Vallecano 3-1 at home on Saturday and stay seven points clear at the top of La Liga.

Lionel Messi created a goal and scored another as Barcelona came from behind to beat struggling Rayo Vallecano 3-1 at home on Saturday and stay seven points clear at the top of La Liga. Rayo, who have now lost their last 12 games against Barca, took a shock lead midway through the first half when forward Raul de Thomas -- who is on loan from Real Madrid -- ran past two defenders before arrowing a shot into the bottom corner. The Madrid side's unlikely lead at the Nou Camp lasted a quarter of an hour and ended when Messi whipped in a free kick for Gerard Pique to appear unmarked and head home. Barca won a penalty early in the second half when Luis Suarez was fouled and Messi converted to put the league leaders in front and the Uruguayan forward made sure of the points with a simple finish from close range in the 82nd minute. Coach Ernesto Valverde started without Ousmane Dembele and Ivan Rakitic but fielded an otherwise first-choice starting 11 even with a Champions League last-16 second leg against Olympique Lyonnais coming up on Wednesday. Record signing Philippe Coutinho started instead of Dembele but yet again failed to dovetail with Suarez and Messi in attack and missed the target with both chances which fell his way. France international Dembele was introduced at the start of the second half for midfielder Arthur Melo and Barca immediately looked more incisive down the right hand side, from which Suarez earned the penalty that Messi converted. Coutinho was taken off with 10 minutes remaining and received a smattering of boos from the Barca fans, and his replacement Rakitic had an instant impact, darting into the area to reach a pass and promptly laying it off to Suarez to score. The win, which followed successive victories over Real Madrid in the league and Copa del Rey, restored Barca's seven-point gap over nearest challengers Atletico Madrid, who earned a 1-0 victory at home to Leganes. Rayo are 19th in the standings and two points from escaping the drop zone as the pressure mounts on coach Michel. "We have had a very tough run of games, in theory today's should have been easier but we know that these games are very difficult to play," Pique told reporters. Barca coach Valverde also emphasised how tough the match was. "The game was hard from the outset and became even harder, De Thomas scored a goal out of absolutely nothing," he said. "I give a lot of value to every win, it's important to keep stringing together victories. We weren't able to take the lead which is what we should be looking to do but the positive thing is the team adapted very well."

Lionel Messi shines as Barcelona beat Rayo Vallecano

A clinical Barcelona won 3-0 at Real Madrid in an intense second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final on Wednesday as a Luis Suarez double helped them secure a 4-1 aggregate victory and a spot in the final for the sixth straight season.

A dominant yet wasteful Real ravaged their rivals in the first half while spurning a string of clear chances at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Yet Barca went ahead against the run of play in the 50th minute as Ousmane Dembele led a counter-attack and Suarez slotted his pass into the net.

Spearheaded by the pace and confidence of Brazilian teenager Vinicius Jr, Madrid continued to fly forward but failed to find the target.

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🔵🔴 This is becoming something of a habit ... And a very nice one too! <a href="https://t.co/uXLg07jjoj">https://t.co/uXLg07jjoj</a>
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Barca effectively killed off the tie when Raphael Varane bundled the ball into his own net as he tried to prevent Suarez reaching another cross from Dembele.

Suarez then earned a penalty and further humiliated Madrid by converting with an audacious 'Panenka', deceiving goalkeeper Keylor Navas by chipping the ball into the net.

Barca, who lost first leg games to Levante and Sevilla in the Cup and drew 1-1 with Madrid in the first leg of the semi-final, booked their place in the final at the Benito Villamarin stadium, the home of Real Betis, on May 25.

Bidding to win the trophy for a record fifth year in a row, the Catalans will face either Betis or Valencia, who drew 2-2 in the first leg of their semi-final and meet again on Thursday.

"This is another demonstration of how good this team is. People keep saying that we don't care about the Cup, but we have shown that we always want to win every single trophy," Suarez told reporters.

Numerous Chances

Real coach Santiago Solari stressed his side's dominance in the game but cursed their inability to take their numerous chances.

"In football, you have to be efficient and take the chances you get," he said.

"We fell with honour, we could do no more. We were not clinical but they were, and we go home feeling hurt because we really wanted to reach the final."

Worst of all for Madrid, La Liga leaders Barca will be back at the Bernabeu once again on Saturday for a league fixture which, should they win again, would see them move 12 points clear of their arch-rivals.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde attempted to neutralise the threat of Vinicius by deploying right-sided defenders Sergi Roberto and Nelson Semedo to protect the left flank but the Brazilian was still the most dangerous player in the first half.

Vinicius could have won a penalty when Semedo clattered into him and had three clear chances to score before the interval, failing to hit the target twice from inside the area, and being thwarted by Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.

He continued to dance his way through Barca's defence after the break but his final touch let him down.

Shortly after Suarez's opener, he cut into the box and delivered a cross which Sergio Reguilon met with a diving header, but Ter Stegen flew across his goal to repel the effort.

Madrid, who were also beaten 3-0 by Barca at the Bernabeu in La Liga last season and were thrashed 5-1 by their rivals back in October, lost their heads after that chance and there was no coming back following Varane's own goal.

Barca seemed to relish their role as Real's tormentors and Suarez took the ball from usual penalty taker Lionel Messi to complete their fourth victory in five visits to the Bernabeu with an ice-cool finish from the spot.

A clinical Barcelona won 3-0 at Real Madrid in an intense second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final on Wednesday as a Luis Suarez double helped them secure a 4-1 aggregate victory and a spot in the final for the sixth straight season.

A clinical Barcelona won 3-0 at Real Madrid in an intense second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final on Wednesday as a Luis Suarez double helped them secure a 4-1 aggregate victory and a spot in the final for the sixth straight season. A dominant yet wasteful Real ravaged their rivals in the first half while spurning a string of clear chances at the Santiago Bernabeu. Yet Barca went ahead against the run of play in the 50th minute as Ousmane Dembele led a counter-attack and Suarez slotted his pass into the net. Spearheaded by the pace and confidence of Brazilian teenager Vinicius Jr, Madrid continued to fly forward but failed to find the target. 🔵🔴 This is becoming something of a habit ... And a very nice one too! https://t.co/uXLg07jjoj — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 28, 2019 × Barca effectively killed off the tie when Raphael Varane bundled the ball into his own net as he tried to prevent Suarez reaching another cross from Dembele. Suarez then earned a penalty and further humiliated Madrid by converting with an audacious 'Panenka', deceiving goalkeeper Keylor Navas by chipping the ball into the net. Barca, who lost first leg games to Levante and Sevilla in the Cup and drew 1-1 with Madrid in the first leg of the semi-final, booked their place in the final at the Benito Villamarin stadium, the home of Real Betis, on May 25. Bidding to win the trophy for a record fifth year in a row, the Catalans will face either Betis or Valencia, who drew 2-2 in the first leg of their semi-final and meet again on Thursday. "This is another demonstration of how good this team is. People keep saying that we don't care about the Cup, but we have shown that we always want to win every single trophy," Suarez told reporters. Numerous Chances Real coach Santiago Solari stressed his side's dominance in the game but cursed their inability to take their numerous chances. "In football, you have to be efficient and take the chances you get," he said. "We fell with honour, we could do no more. We were not clinical but they were, and we go home feeling hurt because we really wanted to reach the final." Worst of all for Madrid, La Liga leaders Barca will be back at the Bernabeu once again on Saturday for a league fixture which, should they win again, would see them move 12 points clear of their arch-rivals. Barca coach Ernesto Valverde attempted to neutralise the threat of Vinicius by deploying right-sided defenders Sergi Roberto and Nelson Semedo to protect the left flank but the Brazilian was still the most dangerous player in the first half. Vinicius could have won a penalty when Semedo clattered into him and had three clear chances to score before the interval, failing to hit the target twice from inside the area, and being thwarted by Marc-Andre Ter Stegen. He continued to dance his way through Barca's defence after the break but his final touch let him down. Shortly after Suarez's opener, he cut into the box and delivered a cross which Sergio Reguilon met with a diving header, but Ter Stegen flew across his goal to repel the effort. Madrid, who were also beaten 3-0 by Barca at the Bernabeu in La Liga last season and were thrashed 5-1 by their rivals back in October, lost their heads after that chance and there was no coming back following Varane's own goal. Barca seemed to relish their role as Real's tormentors and Suarez took the ball from usual penalty taker Lionel Messi to complete their fourth victory in five visits to the Bernabeu with an ice-cool finish from the spot.

Copa del Rey: Luis Suarez double downs Real Madrid to send Barcelona into final

Lionel Messi hit a sumptuous hat-trick, the 50th of his career, to inspire Barcelona to a 4-2 victory over Sevilla on Saturday and take them one step closer to winning La Liga.

Messi was supposed to be lacking fitness and Barca struggling for form but both delivered a resounding response at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, with two matches against Real Madrid just around the corner.

After scoring 11 goals in nine games, Messi's thigh strain had coincided with a dip by his own high standards, one goal in four prompting concerns that he was being pushed too far.

But the Argentinian was back to his scintillating best, this was his 44th treble for Barcelona, now the joint most for a Spanish club alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, rounded off by a trademark chip late on.&nbsp;

Luis Suarez needed a goal too after a disappointing performance against Lyon in midweek and he wrapped up the perfect afternoon by adding a fourth after Jesus Navas and Gabriel Mercado had twice put Sevilla ahead in the first half.&nbsp;

Sevilla's top-four hopes look increasingly uncertain but for Barcelona, this was one of the toughest tests left in their run-in, with perhaps the most difficult to come next weekend, against Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.&nbsp;

Real, who face Levante on Sunday, sit 12 points behind Barca and their best hope of a domestic trophy is surely now in beating them first on Wednesday in the Copa del Rey.

As well as a return to form for Messi and Suarez, there was a return to the team for Samuel Umtiti, the defender handed his first appearance in three months after recovering from a knee injury.&nbsp;

It was given an early test as Wissam Ben Yedder twisted him one way and then the other but Umtiti was quick on his feet and did well to make the block.&nbsp;

Sevilla had started at a furious pace and it was the speedy Navas that scored first, sprinting almost 78 metres to meet the end of a slick counter-attack.&nbsp;

Messi lost the ball and Ben Yedder set off through the centre, teeing up Navas on the right to find the far corner.&nbsp;

Messi soon made amends. Ivan Rakitic sent over a dangling cross, which he volleyed sweetly past Tomas Vaclik with his left foot.&nbsp;

The ball was flying from one end to the other as Umtiti stopped the lively Pablo Sarabia and Gerard Pique's blistering break forward was halted by his opposite number three, Sergi Gomez.&nbsp;

Sevilla scored next, just before half-time, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen's underhit clearance allowing Sarabia to scuttle down the right. He flicked the ball off the goal line and back to Mercado, who steered it into the net.&nbsp;

Ousmane Dembele came on and should have equalised, fluffing his finish after a cross from Suarez, who should have had a penalty when Simon Kjaer caught him late.

Messi provided the finishing touch. Again it came from the goalkeeper, Vaclik's punt falling straight to Rakitic. Dembele pulled back for Messi, who took one touch and curled it, this time right-footed, into the top corner.&nbsp;

Sevilla looked dead on their feet, their early intensity draining away, and Messi landed the knock-out blow. There was a hint of fortune as Carles Alena's shot deflected neatly into his path. Vaclik came out but Messi scooped it over his body and in.&nbsp;

Three times a scorer, there was still time for an assist. Messi chested and poked the ball through for Suarez, who lobbied to make it four.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi hit a sumptuous hat-trick, the 50th of his career, to inspire Barcelona to a 4-2 victory over Sevilla on Saturday and take them one step closer to winning La Liga.

Lionel Messi hit a sumptuous hat-trick, the 50th of his career, to inspire Barcelona to a 4-2 victory over Sevilla on Saturday and take them one step closer to winning La Liga. Messi was supposed to be lacking fitness and Barca struggling for form but both delivered a resounding response at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, with two matches against Real Madrid just around the corner. After scoring 11 goals in nine games, Messi's thigh strain had coincided with a dip by his own high standards, one goal in four prompting concerns that he was being pushed too far. But the Argentinian was back to his scintillating best, this was his 44th treble for Barcelona, now the joint most for a Spanish club alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, rounded off by a trademark chip late on. Luis Suarez needed a goal too after a disappointing performance against Lyon in midweek and he wrapped up the perfect afternoon by adding a fourth after Jesus Navas and Gabriel Mercado had twice put Sevilla ahead in the first half. Sevilla's top-four hopes look increasingly uncertain but for Barcelona, this was one of the toughest tests left in their run-in, with perhaps the most difficult to come next weekend, against Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu. Real, who face Levante on Sunday, sit 12 points behind Barca and their best hope of a domestic trophy is surely now in beating them first on Wednesday in the Copa del Rey. As well as a return to form for Messi and Suarez, there was a return to the team for Samuel Umtiti, the defender handed his first appearance in three months after recovering from a knee injury. It was given an early test as Wissam Ben Yedder twisted him one way and then the other but Umtiti was quick on his feet and did well to make the block. Sevilla had started at a furious pace and it was the speedy Navas that scored first, sprinting almost 78 metres to meet the end of a slick counter-attack. Messi lost the ball and Ben Yedder set off through the centre, teeing up Navas on the right to find the far corner. Messi soon made amends. Ivan Rakitic sent over a dangling cross, which he volleyed sweetly past Tomas Vaclik with his left foot. The ball was flying from one end to the other as Umtiti stopped the lively Pablo Sarabia and Gerard Pique's blistering break forward was halted by his opposite number three, Sergi Gomez. Sevilla scored next, just before half-time, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen's underhit clearance allowing Sarabia to scuttle down the right. He flicked the ball off the goal line and back to Mercado, who steered it into the net. Ousmane Dembele came on and should have equalised, fluffing his finish after a cross from Suarez, who should have had a penalty when Simon Kjaer caught him late. Messi provided the finishing touch. Again it came from the goalkeeper, Vaclik's punt falling straight to Rakitic. Dembele pulled back for Messi, who took one touch and curled it, this time right-footed, into the top corner. Sevilla looked dead on their feet, their early intensity draining away, and Messi landed the knock-out blow. There was a hint of fortune as Carles Alena's shot deflected neatly into his path. Vaclik came out but Messi scooped it over his body and in. Three times a scorer, there was still time for an assist. Messi chested and poked the ball through for Suarez, who lobbied to make it four.

Messi treble fires Barcelona to thrilling win over Sevilla

His left foot: Lionel Messi scores 50th hat-trick of career

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde is reluctant to rest Luis Suarez even though he is aware the Uruguayan is struggling for form thanks to the team's congested fixture list, which includes two games against Real Madrid over the next eight days.

La Liga leaders Barca, who have a seven-point advantage over second-placed Atletico Madrid and nine over Real, visit fourth-placed Sevilla on Saturday before back-to-back meetings at the Santiago Bernabeu, in a Copa del Rey semi-final second leg on Wednesday before a league meeting three days later.

As in recent years, the Catalans are experiencing a dip in form in February, winning one and drawing four games in all competitions this month.

Some players, including Suarez and Lionel Messi, are both going through lean spells, as fatigue appears to have caught up with them. While Messi scored on nine successive appearances from Dec. 16 to Feb. 2, he has netted only once since then. Suarez, however, has failed to score at all during February.

"We will have three really tough games in seven days, so we'll have to think about rotating. We know how costly it could be to get an injury at this stage," Valverde told a news conference on Friday.

But those plans do not include leaving out Suarez.

Suarez, 32, has come in for criticism following a poor display in Barca's 0-0 draw at Olympique Lyonnais in the Champions League.

Despite signs that the Uruguayan could benefit from another rest, Valverde said it was difficult to leave out the striker.

"He is well, last week (against Valladolid) he started on the bench so he has already rested. Suarez guarantees us chances in every game, it's difficult to let go of him," Valverde added.

"People always focus on the same names in certain moments. It's curious with Luis because he's been in the spotlight before and then he has come back and scored lots of goals. We are talking about the fifth highest scorer in the club's history.

"We just need to be patient and persevere, which is what he is doing, and the players and I are very patient with him because he's a great player."

Barca lost 2-0 in their last visit to Sevilla, in the Copa del Rey in January, but turned the tie around with a thumping 6-1 win in the second leg.

Valverde warned of the dangers of Pablo Machin's side, who thrashed Real Madrid 3-0 at home earlier this season.

"Sevilla are a fearsome team at their ground, even though they are not the same team away from home and they are suffering because of that," Valverde added.

"They have had some great results against the top teams, and the last time we went there we lost."

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde is reluctant to rest Luis Suarez even though he is aware the Uruguayan is struggling for form thanks to the team's congested fixture list, which includes two games against Real Madrid over the next eight days.

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde is reluctant to rest Luis Suarez even though he is aware the Uruguayan is struggling for form thanks to the team's congested fixture list, which includes two games against Real Madrid over the next eight days. La Liga leaders Barca, who have a seven-point advantage over second-placed Atletico Madrid and nine over Real, visit fourth-placed Sevilla on Saturday before back-to-back meetings at the Santiago Bernabeu, in a Copa del Rey semi-final second leg on Wednesday before a league meeting three days later. As in recent years, the Catalans are experiencing a dip in form in February, winning one and drawing four games in all competitions this month. Some players, including Suarez and Lionel Messi, are both going through lean spells, as fatigue appears to have caught up with them. While Messi scored on nine successive appearances from Dec. 16 to Feb. 2, he has netted only once since then. Suarez, however, has failed to score at all during February. "We will have three really tough games in seven days, so we'll have to think about rotating. We know how costly it could be to get an injury at this stage," Valverde told a news conference on Friday. But those plans do not include leaving out Suarez. Suarez, 32, has come in for criticism following a poor display in Barca's 0-0 draw at Olympique Lyonnais in the Champions League. Despite signs that the Uruguayan could benefit from another rest, Valverde said it was difficult to leave out the striker. "He is well, last week (against Valladolid) he started on the bench so he has already rested. Suarez guarantees us chances in every game, it's difficult to let go of him," Valverde added. "People always focus on the same names in certain moments. It's curious with Luis because he's been in the spotlight before and then he has come back and scored lots of goals. We are talking about the fifth highest scorer in the club's history. "We just need to be patient and persevere, which is what he is doing, and the players and I are very patient with him because he's a great player." Barca lost 2-0 in their last visit to Sevilla, in the Copa del Rey in January, but turned the tie around with a thumping 6-1 win in the second leg. Valverde warned of the dangers of Pablo Machin's side, who thrashed Real Madrid 3-0 at home earlier this season. "Sevilla are a fearsome team at their ground, even though they are not the same team away from home and they are suffering because of that," Valverde added. "They have had some great results against the top teams, and the last time we went there we lost."

Ernesto Valverde reluctant to rest out-of-form Suarez

Barcelona failed to score despite managing 25 shots in their goalless stalemate at Olympique Lyonnais in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/caution-returns-as-bayern-frustrate-liverpool-198412">Champions League last-16</a> on Tuesday, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of next month's second leg.

Only five of the visitors' attempts were on target but neither Lionel Messi, Ousmane Dembele nor the disappointing Luis Suarez could beat keeper Anthony Lopes at the Groupama stadium.

Lyon could even have taken the lead if it were not for a splendid Mac Andre ter Stegen save in the first half when the German tipped a ferocious Marc Terrier shot onto his crossbar.

"We came here to try and put in a good performance but we couldn't get the goal. Twenty-five shots is not bad, you need to score but when you have so many shots it means you played well, and we did," said Barca defender Clement Lenglet.

"We just lacked a bit of confidence, and I'm sure we'll score at the Nou Camp (on March 13)."

The breakthrough might not come from Uruguay forward Suarez, who has not scored in almost 25 hours in the Champions League.

"Let's see what happens in the Camp Nou but it's always good to go away from home and not concede. Lyon played well but their keeper was very good," said Lenglet.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde added: "My feeling is that we played well. We were switched on. I think that we deserved a better result and did enough to win. It just wasn't our night.

"We are strong at home but there's no denying that 0-0 away from home is a dangerous first leg result. We'll really need our fans at the Camp Nou – everything's up for grabs."

Lyon are hoping the return of their France striker and captain Nabil Fekir, who was suspended on Tuesday, will help them get an away goal.

"We know that he has what it takes, technically, to help us and to get that goal for us," said coach Bruno Genesio.

OL may not have scored but crucially they did not concede either, despite being overwhelmed in the second half, largely thanks to fullback Leo Dubois and centre back Jason Denayer.

"We had chances but didn't put them away," said forward Bertrand Traore.

"We were solid. In these kinds of matches, you have to be very disciplined. A 0-0 is a rather good result ahead of the return leg."

Barcelona failed to score despite managing 25 shots in their goalless stalemate at Olympique Lyonnais in the Champions League last-16 on Tuesday, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of next month's second leg.

Barcelona failed to score despite managing 25 shots in their goalless stalemate at Olympique Lyonnais in the Champions League last-16 on Tuesday, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of next month's second leg. Only five of the visitors' attempts were on target but neither Lionel Messi, Ousmane Dembele nor the disappointing Luis Suarez could beat keeper Anthony Lopes at the Groupama stadium. Lyon could even have taken the lead if it were not for a splendid Mac Andre ter Stegen save in the first half when the German tipped a ferocious Marc Terrier shot onto his crossbar. "We came here to try and put in a good performance but we couldn't get the goal. Twenty-five shots is not bad, you need to score but when you have so many shots it means you played well, and we did," said Barca defender Clement Lenglet. "We just lacked a bit of confidence, and I'm sure we'll score at the Nou Camp (on March 13)." The breakthrough might not come from Uruguay forward Suarez, who has not scored in almost 25 hours in the Champions League. "Let's see what happens in the Camp Nou but it's always good to go away from home and not concede. Lyon played well but their keeper was very good," said Lenglet. Barca coach Ernesto Valverde added: "My feeling is that we played well. We were switched on. I think that we deserved a better result and did enough to win. It just wasn't our night. "We are strong at home but there's no denying that 0-0 away from home is a dangerous first leg result. We'll really need our fans at the Camp Nou – everything's up for grabs." Lyon are hoping the return of their France striker and captain Nabil Fekir, who was suspended on Tuesday, will help them get an away goal. "We know that he has what it takes, technically, to help us and to get that goal for us," said coach Bruno Genesio. OL may not have scored but crucially they did not concede either, despite being overwhelmed in the second half, largely thanks to fullback Leo Dubois and centre back Jason Denayer. "We had chances but didn't put them away," said forward Bertrand Traore. "We were solid. In these kinds of matches, you have to be very disciplined. A 0-0 is a rather good result ahead of the return leg."

Profligate Barca leave Champions League progress up in the air 

Olympique Lyonnais will be out to 'reduce' the influence of Lionel Messi when they host Barcelona in their Champions League last-16 first leg without their talisman and captain Nabil Fekir on Tuesday.

Fekir will be suspended for the game, limiting Lyon's striking power as Bruno Genesio's side will rely on defender Ferland Mendy to contain Argentine forward Messi and French striker Ousmane Dembele.

"Nabil Fekir is our captain and technical leader. We will have to do more to compensate for his absence," Genesio told reporters on Monday.

"We will have to reduce Messi's influence."

Despite Messi having scored more than 100 times in the Champions League, Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar has confidence in his team mate Mendy to control proceedings at the Groupama Stadium.

"I think that Ferland Mendy is ready to face Messi," he said.

"We are confident in the qualities of our squad."

Aouar's enthusiasm may yet be dented as Lyon are also sweating on the fitness of defender Jason Denayer and midfielder Tanguy Ndombele.

The French side geared up for Tuesday's clash with a hard-fought 2-1 Ligue 1 win against Guingamp on Friday while Barca needed a Messi penalty to beat Real Valladolid 1-0 in La Liga on Saturday.

Lyon are the clear underdogs but they have already shown they can rise up to the big occasions, inflicting Paris St Germain's only Ligue 1 defeat of the season a couple of weeks ago. They also beat English champions Manchester City in the Champions League group stage in September.

Olympique Lyonnais will be out to 'reduce' the influence of Lionel Messi when they host Barcelona in their Champions League last-16 first leg without their talisman and captain Nabil Fekir on Tuesday.

Olympique Lyonnais will be out to 'reduce' the influence of Lionel Messi when they host Barcelona in their Champions League last-16 first leg without their talisman and captain Nabil Fekir on Tuesday. Fekir will be suspended for the game, limiting Lyon's striking power as Bruno Genesio's side will rely on defender Ferland Mendy to contain Argentine forward Messi and French striker Ousmane Dembele. "Nabil Fekir is our captain and technical leader. We will have to do more to compensate for his absence," Genesio told reporters on Monday. "We will have to reduce Messi's influence." Despite Messi having scored more than 100 times in the Champions League, Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar has confidence in his team mate Mendy to control proceedings at the Groupama Stadium. "I think that Ferland Mendy is ready to face Messi," he said. "We are confident in the qualities of our squad." Aouar's enthusiasm may yet be dented as Lyon are also sweating on the fitness of defender Jason Denayer and midfielder Tanguy Ndombele. The French side geared up for Tuesday's clash with a hard-fought 2-1 Ligue 1 win against Guingamp on Friday while Barca needed a Messi penalty to beat Real Valladolid 1-0 in La Liga on Saturday. Lyon are the clear underdogs but they have already shown they can rise up to the big occasions, inflicting Paris St Germain's only Ligue 1 defeat of the season a couple of weeks ago. They also beat English champions Manchester City in the Champions League group stage in September.

Lyon hoping to limit Lionel Messi's influence

Lionel Messi scored one penalty and missed another as Barcelona beat Real Valladolid 1-0 on Saturday to open up a seven-point lead at the top of La Liga.

The Catalans played far below their vibrant best but were not troubled by the visitors at the Nou Camp as they ended a run of three consecutive draws in all competitions.

Ousmane Dembele was handed his first start after injury, and loan signing Kevin-Prince Boateng featured for only the second time since joining in January as coach Ernesto Valverde started with Luis Suarez on the bench ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash at Olympique Lyonnais.

Barcelona struggled to create chances against a tight Valladolid defence, only breaking the deadlock when Messi converted a penalty won by Gerard Pique just before halftime for his 22nd league goal of the season.

Messi almost scored his second early in the second half but former Barcelona goalkeeper Jordi Masip pulled off a breathtaking stop to deny La Liga's top scorer from close range.

The Argentine had another chance from the penalty spot in the final stages after substitute Philippe Coutinho was fouled but Masip made another impressive save to deny him.

"We didn't move the ball as quickly as we needed to," said Valverde. "We lacked fluidity in the first half, we had it in the second. We were more ourselves.

"We had six chances but we know that everything is looked at through the result."

At times it seemed like Barcelona's minds were already drifting towards the return of the Champions League, with only Pique performing particularly well on his 300th La Liga appearance for the club.

The defender's charge upfield led to Barcelona's penalty in the first half and another similar drive forward got fans out of their seats after the break.

"We weren't the Barca we wanted to be today," said Pique.

"For Tuesday we have to be better or it will go badly for us. If we don't move the ball quickly, dominate possession and create chances we become a weaker team."

Messi, who has been suffering some discomfort in his thigh, looked fitter than he did last weekend when Barca drew 0-0 with Athletic Bilbao yet he gave the ball away on numerous occasions.

Valladolid, however, have the least potent attack in La Liga, having scored just 19 goals all season and rarely troubled Barca keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

Only Masip prevented Messi from adding to his tally and the goalkeeper completed an impressive homecoming display with a fine save from substitute Suarez at the end.

Lionel Messi scored one penalty and missed another as Barcelona beat Real Valladolid 1-0 on Saturday to open up a seven-point lead at the top of La Liga. The Catalans played far below their vibrant best but were not troubled by the visitors at the Nou Camp as they ended a run of three consecutive draws in all competitions.

Lionel Messi scored one penalty and missed another as Barcelona beat Real Valladolid 1-0 on Saturday to open up a seven-point lead at the top of La Liga. The Catalans played far below their vibrant best but were not troubled by the visitors at the Nou Camp as they ended a run of three consecutive draws in all competitions. Ousmane Dembele was handed his first start after injury, and loan signing Kevin-Prince Boateng featured for only the second time since joining in January as coach Ernesto Valverde started with Luis Suarez on the bench ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash at Olympique Lyonnais. Barcelona struggled to create chances against a tight Valladolid defence, only breaking the deadlock when Messi converted a penalty won by Gerard Pique just before halftime for his 22nd league goal of the season. Messi almost scored his second early in the second half but former Barcelona goalkeeper Jordi Masip pulled off a breathtaking stop to deny La Liga's top scorer from close range. The Argentine had another chance from the penalty spot in the final stages after substitute Philippe Coutinho was fouled but Masip made another impressive save to deny him. "We didn't move the ball as quickly as we needed to," said Valverde. "We lacked fluidity in the first half, we had it in the second. We were more ourselves. "We had six chances but we know that everything is looked at through the result." At times it seemed like Barcelona's minds were already drifting towards the return of the Champions League, with only Pique performing particularly well on his 300th La Liga appearance for the club. The defender's charge upfield led to Barcelona's penalty in the first half and another similar drive forward got fans out of their seats after the break. "We weren't the Barca we wanted to be today," said Pique. "For Tuesday we have to be better or it will go badly for us. If we don't move the ball quickly, dominate possession and create chances we become a weaker team." Messi, who has been suffering some discomfort in his thigh, looked fitter than he did last weekend when Barca drew 0-0 with Athletic Bilbao yet he gave the ball away on numerous occasions. Valladolid, however, have the least potent attack in La Liga, having scored just 19 goals all season and rarely troubled Barca keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Only Masip prevented Messi from adding to his tally and the goalkeeper completed an impressive homecoming display with a fine save from substitute Suarez at the end.

La Liga: Messi penalty helps under-par Barcelona beat Real Valladolid

Barcelona have extended coach Ernesto Valverde's contract by another year until the end of the 2019-20 season with an option for one more year, the La Liga champions said on Friday.

"FC Barcelona and Ernesto Valverde, the first team coach, have reached an agreement to extend the contract between the two parties for another season (2019/20) with the option for one more (2020/21)," the club said in a statement on their website.

The announcement is a huge vote of confidence in Valverde, whose future with the club looked uncertain after he said last December that he did not know what he would be doing the following year.

Valverde, 55, succeeded Luis Enrique as coach in 2017, earning the job after sustained success with Athletic Bilbao.

He guided Barca to a La Liga and Copa del Rey double in his debut campaign and almost led them to an unbeaten season in the league, losing only their penultimate game to Levante.

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❗ [LATEST NEWS] Agreement to extend Ernesto Valverde's contract 
More info 👉 <a href="https://t.co/LiAjy53jnP">https://t.co/LiAjy53jnP</a> <a href="https://t.co/ehuoU4V5ms">pic.twitter.com/ehuoU4V5ms</a>
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He, however, faced strong criticism for the team's failure in the Champions League, exiting the tournament on away goals to AS Roma, throwing away a 4-1 lead from the first leg by losing 3-0 in the away leg.&nbsp;

The collapse in Europe's elite competition, which Barca have not won since 2015 while Real Madrid have lifted the trophy for the last three years, seriously damaged the coach's reputation and cast doubt on his long term future.&nbsp;

Last month, Valverde said his stay at the club would depend on his achievements this season, and there was a feeling he would not be given an extra year if the club did not make serious progress in the Champions League.&nbsp;

Barcelona lead the league standings with 51 points from 23 games, six points ahead of Real Madrid. They face Real Valladolid in La Liga on Saturday, meeting Olympique Lyonnais in a Champions League last-16 first leg on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Barcelona have extended coach Ernesto Valverde's contract by another year until the end of the 2019-20 season with an option for one more year, the La Liga champions said on Friday.

Barcelona have extended coach Ernesto Valverde's contract by another year until the end of the 2019-20 season with an option for one more year, the La Liga champions said on Friday. "FC Barcelona and Ernesto Valverde, the first team coach, have reached an agreement to extend the contract between the two parties for another season (2019/20) with the option for one more (2020/21)," the club said in a statement on their website. The announcement is a huge vote of confidence in Valverde, whose future with the club looked uncertain after he said last December that he did not know what he would be doing the following year. Valverde, 55, succeeded Luis Enrique as coach in 2017, earning the job after sustained success with Athletic Bilbao. He guided Barca to a La Liga and Copa del Rey double in his debut campaign and almost led them to an unbeaten season in the league, losing only their penultimate game to Levante. ❗ [LATEST NEWS] Agreement to extend Ernesto Valverde's contract More info 👉 https://t.co/LiAjy53jnP pic.twitter.com/ehuoU4V5ms — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 15, 2019 × He, however, faced strong criticism for the team's failure in the Champions League, exiting the tournament on away goals to AS Roma, throwing away a 4-1 lead from the first leg by losing 3-0 in the away leg. The collapse in Europe's elite competition, which Barca have not won since 2015 while Real Madrid have lifted the trophy for the last three years, seriously damaged the coach's reputation and cast doubt on his long term future. Last month, Valverde said his stay at the club would depend on his achievements this season, and there was a feeling he would not be given an extra year if the club did not make serious progress in the Champions League. Barcelona lead the league standings with 51 points from 23 games, six points ahead of Real Madrid. They face Real Valladolid in La Liga on Saturday, meeting Olympique Lyonnais in a Champions League last-16 first leg on Tuesday.

Barcelona extend Ernesto Valverde contract until 2020

Barcelona's German goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen produced two fine saves to deny Athletic Bilbao victory as La Liga leaders Barcelona were held to a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-give-fresh-hope-to-la-liga-rivals-after-athletic-bilbao-stalemate-196487">goalless draw</a> at the Estadio San Mames on Sunday.&nbsp;

Ter Stegen turned away Markel Susaeta's arcing shot before the break and then produced a superb reflex stop to repel Inaki Williams' effort from point-blank range.&nbsp;

With the draw, Ernesto Valverde's squad thus dropped two points in the La Liga standings relative to Real Madrid, which is now behind Barca by only six points, but widened its lead to seven over Atletico Madrid, which slipped into third place.&nbsp;

Barca might even have left empty-handed with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez misfiring as Gaizka Garitano's men started and finished strongly.&nbsp;

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📝 Here's the story from San Mamés 
🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AthleticBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AthleticBarça</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForçaBarça</a> <a href="https://t.co/8klmaZYIND">https://t.co/8klmaZYIND</a>
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While Barcelona boss Valverde looked unfazed by the result during the post-match press conference.&nbsp;

He said, "We end this week exactly like we ended the previous one. We were on top last week and we are on top this week."

"And, if my calculations are correct, we will be on top after next week as well," he added.&nbsp;

On being asked about lack of communication between players, Valverde said, "Every time we talk about the attack, we always talk about the ability of the players to talk to each other in the right moment."

"Sometimes a player gets free and get the ball into his feet and other times, when he is expecting the ball to land into his feet, it goes into the space," Valverde added.&nbsp;

Although Athletic saw De Marcos dismissed for a second bookable offence in stoppage time, there was no late drama.&nbsp;

Barcelona's German goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen produced two fine saves to deny Athletic Bilbao victory as La Liga leaders Barcelona were held to a goalless draw at the Estadio San Mames on Sunday.

Barcelona's German goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen produced two fine saves to deny Athletic Bilbao victory as La Liga leaders Barcelona were held to a goalless draw at the Estadio San Mames on Sunday. Ter Stegen turned away Markel Susaeta's arcing shot before the break and then produced a superb reflex stop to repel Inaki Williams' effort from point-blank range. With the draw, Ernesto Valverde's squad thus dropped two points in the La Liga standings relative to Real Madrid, which is now behind Barca by only six points, but widened its lead to seven over Atletico Madrid, which slipped into third place. Barca might even have left empty-handed with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez misfiring as Gaizka Garitano's men started and finished strongly. 📝 Here's the story from San Mamés 🔵🔴 #AthleticBarça #ForçaBarça https://t.co/8klmaZYIND — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 10, 2019 × While Barcelona boss Valverde looked unfazed by the result during the post-match press conference. He said, "We end this week exactly like we ended the previous one. We were on top last week and we are on top this week." "And, if my calculations are correct, we will be on top after next week as well," he added. On being asked about lack of communication between players, Valverde said, "Every time we talk about the attack, we always talk about the ability of the players to talk to each other in the right moment." "Sometimes a player gets free and get the ball into his feet and other times, when he is expecting the ball to land into his feet, it goes into the space," Valverde added. Although Athletic saw De Marcos dismissed for a second bookable offence in stoppage time, there was no late drama.

Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde unfazed by Real Madrid title challenge

Lionel Messi was short of fitness and Barcelona lacked spark as a goalless draw away to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday offered fresh hope to their rivals in the title race.&nbsp;

A thigh injury had limited Messi to 27 minutes against Real Madrid on Wednesday and while he played the full match at San Mames, Barca's assistant coach Jon Aspiazu had admitted before kick-off he was not yet 100 per cent.&nbsp;

In all likelihood, he stayed on because his team needed him but Messi was not at his best and neither were Barcelona, who would even have lost had it not been for Marc Andre Ter Stegen's stunning late save to deny Inaki Williams.&nbsp;

"He saved us," coach Ernesto Valverde said. "It was a great stop."

The draw makes it three games without a win for La Liga's leaders, whose advantage is still six points but now with Real Madrid their closest challengers, after they beat Atletico on Saturday.&nbsp;

"We were first last week and we are still first, and if my maths is right, we will be again next week," Valverde said.

But Real's victory at the Wanda Metropolitano was their fifth on the bounce and just as they have gained momentum, Barca appears to be losing theirs, at a crucial juncture, with more stern tests to come.&nbsp;

After Real Valladolid at home next weekend, Valverde's side travel to Lyon in the Champions League and Sevilla in the league. They then face two Clasicos in four days, one in the Copa del Rey, and both at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"We are playing a lot of games at the moment and that shows," Luis Suarez said. "We also lacked communication today -- it is the little details that make a difference."

Injuries have not helped either. Messi was picked but not fully recovered while Ousmane Dembele was fit enough only for the bench, having shaken off an ankle injury.&nbsp;

Coutinho struggling&nbsp;

The struggling Philippe Coutinho retained his place alongside Suarez and Messi up front but Arturo Vidal came in for the injured Arthur Melo and Nelson Semedo started at left back, with Jordi Alba suspended.&nbsp;

Bilbao had the better of the early stages as Yuri Berchiche flashed just wide after a poor pass from Vidal while Markel Susaeta's drive forced the leaping Ter Stegen into an acrobatic save.&nbsp;

Barcelona settled into the game but was never in control. Still, they twice should have scored, with Messi and Suarez both guilty of missing.&nbsp;

First, Suarez peeled free at the back post but glanced wide from Messi's cross and then Messi hit the crossbar, the goal gaping after Iago Herrerin had rushed out to intercept Nelson Semedo.&nbsp;

The game was frantic and Bilbao was more than holding their own. Raul Garcia's finish was blocked and Mikel San Jose's effort whistled inches outside of the post.&nbsp;

In between, Barca had enjoyed their best spell at the start of the second half but the gaps always seemed to close around the penalty area and they struggled to find a way through.&nbsp;

Dembele replaced Coutinho with just over 10 minutes left but Bilbao had the best chance to win it. Iker Muniain squared for Williams, who looked certain to score after wriggling free of Gerard Pique. Instead, Ter Stegen shot out his right hand, somehow denying the striker from eight yards.&nbsp;

De Marcos received a second yellow card in injury-time for a handball but there was no time for Barce to feel the benefit. Bilbao held on.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi was short of fitness and Barcelona lacked spark as a goalless draw away to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday offered fresh hope to their rivals in the title race.

Lionel Messi was short of fitness and Barcelona lacked spark as a goalless draw away to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday offered fresh hope to their rivals in the title race. A thigh injury had limited Messi to 27 minutes against Real Madrid on Wednesday and while he played the full match at San Mames, Barca's assistant coach Jon Aspiazu had admitted before kick-off he was not yet 100 per cent. In all likelihood, he stayed on because his team needed him but Messi was not at his best and neither were Barcelona, who would even have lost had it not been for Marc Andre Ter Stegen's stunning late save to deny Inaki Williams. "He saved us," coach Ernesto Valverde said. "It was a great stop." The draw makes it three games without a win for La Liga's leaders, whose advantage is still six points but now with Real Madrid their closest challengers, after they beat Atletico on Saturday. "We were first last week and we are still first, and if my maths is right, we will be again next week," Valverde said. But Real's victory at the Wanda Metropolitano was their fifth on the bounce and just as they have gained momentum, Barca appears to be losing theirs, at a crucial juncture, with more stern tests to come. After Real Valladolid at home next weekend, Valverde's side travel to Lyon in the Champions League and Sevilla in the league. They then face two Clasicos in four days, one in the Copa del Rey, and both at the Santiago Bernabeu. "We are playing a lot of games at the moment and that shows," Luis Suarez said. "We also lacked communication today -- it is the little details that make a difference." Injuries have not helped either. Messi was picked but not fully recovered while Ousmane Dembele was fit enough only for the bench, having shaken off an ankle injury. Coutinho struggling The struggling Philippe Coutinho retained his place alongside Suarez and Messi up front but Arturo Vidal came in for the injured Arthur Melo and Nelson Semedo started at left back, with Jordi Alba suspended. Bilbao had the better of the early stages as Yuri Berchiche flashed just wide after a poor pass from Vidal while Markel Susaeta's drive forced the leaping Ter Stegen into an acrobatic save. Barcelona settled into the game but was never in control. Still, they twice should have scored, with Messi and Suarez both guilty of missing. First, Suarez peeled free at the back post but glanced wide from Messi's cross and then Messi hit the crossbar, the goal gaping after Iago Herrerin had rushed out to intercept Nelson Semedo. The game was frantic and Bilbao was more than holding their own. Raul Garcia's finish was blocked and Mikel San Jose's effort whistled inches outside of the post. In between, Barca had enjoyed their best spell at the start of the second half but the gaps always seemed to close around the penalty area and they struggled to find a way through. Dembele replaced Coutinho with just over 10 minutes left but Bilbao had the best chance to win it. Iker Muniain squared for Williams, who looked certain to score after wriggling free of Gerard Pique. Instead, Ter Stegen shot out his right hand, somehow denying the striker from eight yards. De Marcos received a second yellow card in injury-time for a handball but there was no time for Barce to feel the benefit. Bilbao held on.

Barcelona give fresh hope to La Liga rivals after Athletic Bilbao stalemate

A body recovered by British investigators from the submerged wreckage of a plane that went down in the Channel has been identified as that of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-from-wreck-of-emiliano-sala-plane-taken-to-britain-195833">footballer Emiliano Sala</a>, police said on Thursday.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-recovered-from-salas-plane-wreckage-say-british-investigators-195678">Argentine striker's body </a>was first spotted by rescuers with a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) on Sunday close to where the plane went missing near the British island of Guernsey.

It was recovered on Wednesday and brought to the Isle of Portland in southern England on board the Geo Ocean III offshore supply ship on Thursday for formal identification by coroners, who investigate violent deaths in Britain.

"The body brought to Portland Port today has been formally identified... as that of professional footballer Emiliano Sala," police in Dorset, the county where the body was taken, said on Twitter.

"The families of Mr Sala and pilot David Ibbotson have been updated. Our thoughts remain with them all," police said.

Britain's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB), which recovered the body, said that bad weather in the busy shipping thoroughfare meant it was unable to recover the plane and as a result was closing down the operation.

The light aircraft was carrying the 28-year-old footballer to his new Premier League team Cardiff City when it disappeared near Guernsey on January 21, along with 59-year-old Ibbotson.

Sala's disappearance prompted an outpouring of grief across the footballing world, including at his former club Nantes in France where the plane was flying from.

After search operations were suspended in the days after the plane went missing, a shipwreck hunter hired by Sala's family, with funds donated by football stars such as Lionel Messi, found the wreckage on Sunday.

The AAIB then co-ordinated the recovery and the rescued body was taken to Portland Harbour earlier on Thursday and was seen being stretchered into a silver van.

Accident report expected

"In challenging conditions, the AAIB and its specialist contractors successfully recovered the body previously seen amidst the wreckage," the AAIB said Wednesday.

"The operation was carried out in as dignified a way as possible."

But it added, "The weather forecast is poor for the foreseeable future and so the difficult decision was taken to bring the overall operation to a close".

It said that extensive video footage captured by a remotely operated vehicle is expected to "provide valuable evidence for our safety investigation," adding that it intends to publish an interim report on the accident later this month.&nbsp;

Private search

Sala had been flying in to join up with his new club Cardiff City in what was the most expensive signing in the Welsh club's history.

Nantes have consulted lawyers to explore legal options to ensure Cardiff pays the transfer fee for Sala, a source close to the French club revealed on Wednesday.

According to the source, the first instalment of the 17-million-euro ($19.3 million) deal for the Argentine striker has yet to be paid, despite the transfer being finalised before the accident.

According to BBC Wales, Nantes have given Cardiff a 10-day ultimatum over the first payment of between five and six million euros.

A source at Cardiff told British media that the Welsh club will honour the contract but only once they have clarified "all the facts". Cardiff are said to be "surprised" with the timing of the demand so soon after the tragedy.

The plane, a Piper PA-46 Malibu, vanished from radar around 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Guernsey, with pilot Ibbotson the only other person aboard.

After the official rescue team gave up their search, saying there was little chance of finding anyone alive, Sala's family raised more than 370,000 euros ($422,000) in an online campaign to pay for a private hunt.

"Had that not happened, I don't think anybody would have searched for the plane," shipwreck hunter David Mearns, whose private company found the plane, told AFP.

The discovery of two seat cushions on the French coast last week revealed that the plane had broken apart, Mearns added.

Earlier this week the footballer's father, Horacio Sala, acknowledged that there was no prospect of finding his son alive.

"There's no longer any hope," he told Fox Sports.

A body recovered by British investigators from the submerged wreckage of a plane that went down in the Channel has been identified as that of footballer Emiliano Sala, police said on Thursday.

A body recovered by British investigators from the submerged wreckage of a plane that went down in the Channel has been identified as that of footballer Emiliano Sala, police said on Thursday. The Argentine striker's body was first spotted by rescuers with a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) on Sunday close to where the plane went missing near the British island of Guernsey. It was recovered on Wednesday and brought to the Isle of Portland in southern England on board the Geo Ocean III offshore supply ship on Thursday for formal identification by coroners, who investigate violent deaths in Britain. "The body brought to Portland Port today has been formally identified... as that of professional footballer Emiliano Sala," police in Dorset, the county where the body was taken, said on Twitter. "The families of Mr Sala and pilot David Ibbotson have been updated. Our thoughts remain with them all," police said. Britain's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB), which recovered the body, said that bad weather in the busy shipping thoroughfare meant it was unable to recover the plane and as a result was closing down the operation. The light aircraft was carrying the 28-year-old footballer to his new Premier League team Cardiff City when it disappeared near Guernsey on January 21, along with 59-year-old Ibbotson. Sala's disappearance prompted an outpouring of grief across the footballing world, including at his former club Nantes in France where the plane was flying from. After search operations were suspended in the days after the plane went missing, a shipwreck hunter hired by Sala's family, with funds donated by football stars such as Lionel Messi, found the wreckage on Sunday. The AAIB then co-ordinated the recovery and the rescued body was taken to Portland Harbour earlier on Thursday and was seen being stretchered into a silver van. Accident report expected "In challenging conditions, the AAIB and its specialist contractors successfully recovered the body previously seen amidst the wreckage," the AAIB said Wednesday. "The operation was carried out in as dignified a way as possible." But it added, "The weather forecast is poor for the foreseeable future and so the difficult decision was taken to bring the overall operation to a close". It said that extensive video footage captured by a remotely operated vehicle is expected to "provide valuable evidence for our safety investigation," adding that it intends to publish an interim report on the accident later this month. Private search Sala had been flying in to join up with his new club Cardiff City in what was the most expensive signing in the Welsh club's history. Nantes have consulted lawyers to explore legal options to ensure Cardiff pays the transfer fee for Sala, a source close to the French club revealed on Wednesday. According to the source, the first instalment of the 17-million-euro ($19.3 million) deal for the Argentine striker has yet to be paid, despite the transfer being finalised before the accident. According to BBC Wales, Nantes have given Cardiff a 10-day ultimatum over the first payment of between five and six million euros. A source at Cardiff told British media that the Welsh club will honour the contract but only once they have clarified "all the facts". Cardiff are said to be "surprised" with the timing of the demand so soon after the tragedy. The plane, a Piper PA-46 Malibu, vanished from radar around 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Guernsey, with pilot Ibbotson the only other person aboard. After the official rescue team gave up their search, saying there was little chance of finding anyone alive, Sala's family raised more than 370,000 euros ($422,000) in an online campaign to pay for a private hunt. "Had that not happened, I don't think anybody would have searched for the plane," shipwreck hunter David Mearns, whose private company found the plane, told AFP. The discovery of two seat cushions on the French coast last week revealed that the plane had broken apart, Mearns added. Earlier this week the footballer's father, Horacio Sala, acknowledged that there was no prospect of finding his son alive. "There's no longer any hope," he told Fox Sports.

Body recovered from plane wreckage identified as footballer Sala: Police

Lionel Messi's stunning two goals helped Barcelona come from behind to draw 2-2 against Valencia at Camp Nou in La Liga on Saturday.&nbsp;

Messi's brace helped his side rescue a point in a tough game also making him the first player in Europe’s top leagues to reach 20 league goals for the season.

French striker Kevin Gameiro and a Dani Parejo penalty helped Valencia take a two-goal lead before half-time against the league leaders.&nbsp;

However, it was a foul by Toni Lato that led to Messi halving the hosts' deficit six minutes before the interval with a spot-kick of his own.&nbsp;

Messi then struck again in the 64th minute, after Arturo Vidal had laid the ball off to him at the top of the penalty area.

Neither team could find a winner in the remaining 30 minutes of the match, but the draw ensured Barca avoided a first league loss since November and took them to 50 points from 22 games.

Lionel Messi's stunning two goals helped Barcelona come from behind to draw 2-2 against Valencia at Camp Nou in La Liga on Saturday. Messi's brace helped his side rescue a point in a tough game also making him the first player in Europe’s top leagues to reach 20 league goals for the season.

Lionel Messi's stunning two goals helped Barcelona come from behind to draw 2-2 against Valencia at Camp Nou in La Liga on Saturday. Messi's brace helped his side rescue a point in a tough game also making him the first player in Europe’s top leagues to reach 20 league goals for the season. French striker Kevin Gameiro and a Dani Parejo penalty helped Valencia take a two-goal lead before half-time against the league leaders. However, it was a foul by Toni Lato that led to Messi halving the hosts' deficit six minutes before the interval with a spot-kick of his own. Messi then struck again in the 64th minute, after Arturo Vidal had laid the ball off to him at the top of the penalty area. Neither team could find a winner in the remaining 30 minutes of the match, but the draw ensured Barca avoided a first league loss since November and took them to 50 points from 22 games.

La Liga: Lionel Messi brace inspires Barcelona comeback draw against Valencia

Philippe Coutinho struck twice as Barcelona mounted a comeback to thrash Sevilla 6-1 and sweep into the Copa del Rey semi-finals 6-3 on aggregate on Wednesday.

After a 2-0 defeat in Seville last week in which they rested key players, the Catalans broke the deadlock in the 13th minute when Coutinho slotted home from the penalty spot following Quincy Promes's foul on Lionel Messi.

Messi handed Coutinho the ball and the Brazilian playmaker converted the spot kick, ending a run of poor form.

"Leo encouraged me to take the penalty and that helped me gain confidence," said Coutinho. "The gesture shows what a great person he is."

Sevilla nearly equalised but Jasper Cillessen produced a brilliant save from Andre Silva's backheel, before the Dutch goalkeeper palmed away Ever Banega's penalty.

Gerard Pique fouled Roque Mesa and after a long delay while the incident was checked by VAR, Argentina midfielder Banega fired to the goalkeeper's left, but Cillessen flew across to keep the ball out.

Barcelona pulled the game level on aggregate in the 32nd minute when Ivan Rakitic nudged the ball past Juan Soriano with the faintest of touches after a sensational pass from Arthur.

Two goals in a two-minute spell after the break helped Barcelona race ahead, with Coutinho heading in from Luis Suarez's cross and Sergi Roberto tucking home a ball from Messi.

Guilherme Arana pulled a goal back for Sevilla with a powerful drive after the otherwise impressive Cillessen gave the ball away, but Pablo Machin's side were finally sunk when Suarez struck on the break and Messi added a late sixth.

"Coutinho spoke with Messi and took the penalty, I'm happy for his goals," said Sergi Roberto.

"We want him to be happy and that's it. He's a very important player for us."

Earlier Real Betis, whose Benito Villamarin stadium will host the final in May, beat Espanyol 3-1 at home after extra-time to progress 4-1 on aggregate.

Leo Baptistao headed Espanyol in front after 33 minutes but Giovani Lo Celso equalised in the 76th minute before Marc Roca was dismissed for the visitors.

Betis capitalised on their numerical advantage in extra-time, with Sergio Leon and Aissa Mandi's strikes earning them a semi-final spot.

Philippe Coutinho struck twice as Barcelona mounted a comeback to thrash Sevilla 6-1 and sweep into the Copa del Rey semi-finals 6-3 on aggregate on Wednesday. After a 2-0 defeat in Seville last week in which they rested key players, the Catalans broke the deadlock in the 13th minute when Coutinho slotted home from the penalty spot following Quincy Promes's foul on Lionel Messi.

Philippe Coutinho struck twice as Barcelona mounted a comeback to thrash Sevilla 6-1 and sweep into the Copa del Rey semi-finals 6-3 on aggregate on Wednesday. After a 2-0 defeat in Seville last week in which they rested key players, the Catalans broke the deadlock in the 13th minute when Coutinho slotted home from the penalty spot following Quincy Promes's foul on Lionel Messi. Messi handed Coutinho the ball and the Brazilian playmaker converted the spot kick, ending a run of poor form. "Leo encouraged me to take the penalty and that helped me gain confidence," said Coutinho. "The gesture shows what a great person he is." Sevilla nearly equalised but Jasper Cillessen produced a brilliant save from Andre Silva's backheel, before the Dutch goalkeeper palmed away Ever Banega's penalty. Gerard Pique fouled Roque Mesa and after a long delay while the incident was checked by VAR, Argentina midfielder Banega fired to the goalkeeper's left, but Cillessen flew across to keep the ball out. Barcelona pulled the game level on aggregate in the 32nd minute when Ivan Rakitic nudged the ball past Juan Soriano with the faintest of touches after a sensational pass from Arthur. Two goals in a two-minute spell after the break helped Barcelona race ahead, with Coutinho heading in from Luis Suarez's cross and Sergi Roberto tucking home a ball from Messi. Guilherme Arana pulled a goal back for Sevilla with a powerful drive after the otherwise impressive Cillessen gave the ball away, but Pablo Machin's side were finally sunk when Suarez struck on the break and Messi added a late sixth. "Coutinho spoke with Messi and took the penalty, I'm happy for his goals," said Sergi Roberto. "We want him to be happy and that's it. He's a very important player for us." Earlier Real Betis, whose Benito Villamarin stadium will host the final in May, beat Espanyol 3-1 at home after extra-time to progress 4-1 on aggregate. Leo Baptistao headed Espanyol in front after 33 minutes but Giovani Lo Celso equalised in the 76th minute before Marc Roca was dismissed for the visitors. Betis capitalised on their numerical advantage in extra-time, with Sergio Leon and Aissa Mandi's strikes earning them a semi-final spot.

Barcelona demolish Sevilla with spectacular 6-1 cup comeback

Lionel Messi scored for a sixth consecutive La Liga game as champions Barcelona saw off a gutsy Girona side 2-0 in a Catalan derby on Sunday to go five points clear at the top of the standings.

Portuguese fullback Nelson Semedo struck with his weaker left foot to send Barca into the lead in the ninth minute of the game, which was played on a rain-swept afternoon at Girona's Montilivi stadium after La Liga's ambitious plan to stage the game in Miami fell through.

Girona missed a double chance to equalise shortly before the break, with Barca defender Gerard Pique clearing a shot off the line, and the home side`s striker Cristhian Stuani was thwarted by the feet of German keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen early in the second period.

Girona had defender Bernardo Espinosa sent off in the 51st minute for a second booking and their hopes of getting back in the game were dealt a fatal blow by La Liga's top scorer Messi, who lofted the ball over keeper Bono in the 68th to net his 18th league goal of the season.

The strike means Messi has now scored at every La Liga ground he has played at, with the Argentine still to visit Huesca later in the campaign.

Barca top the table on 49 points after 21 games, holding a five-point lead over nearest challengers Atletico Madrid.

Lionel Messi scored for a sixth consecutive La Liga game as champions Barcelona saw off a gutsy Girona side 2-0 in a Catalan derby on Sunday to go five points clear at the top of the standings.

Lionel Messi scored for a sixth consecutive La Liga game as champions Barcelona saw off a gutsy Girona side 2-0 in a Catalan derby on Sunday to go five points clear at the top of the standings. Portuguese fullback Nelson Semedo struck with his weaker left foot to send Barca into the lead in the ninth minute of the game, which was played on a rain-swept afternoon at Girona's Montilivi stadium after La Liga's ambitious plan to stage the game in Miami fell through. Girona missed a double chance to equalise shortly before the break, with Barca defender Gerard Pique clearing a shot off the line, and the home side`s striker Cristhian Stuani was thwarted by the feet of German keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen early in the second period. Girona had defender Bernardo Espinosa sent off in the 51st minute for a second booking and their hopes of getting back in the game were dealt a fatal blow by La Liga's top scorer Messi, who lofted the ball over keeper Bono in the 68th to net his 18th league goal of the season. The strike means Messi has now scored at every La Liga ground he has played at, with the Argentine still to visit Huesca later in the campaign. Barca top the table on 49 points after 21 games, holding a five-point lead over nearest challengers Atletico Madrid.

Lionel Messi on target again as Barcelona overcome Girona

Mauricio Macri, President of Argentina, came forward and joined calls for the search for missing Cardiff City footballer <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/factbox-cardiff-city-striker-emiliano-sala-192054">Emiliano Sala</a> to resume.&nbsp;

Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since Monday night.&nbsp;

Rescuers said on Thursday that they had <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/rescuers-end-search-for-missing-plane-carrying-football-star-emiliano-sala-192562">ended the search</a> stating that the chances of survival of both, pilot and footballer, were extremely remote.&nbsp;

As per an official statement, Macri&nbsp;told his foreign minister to issue formal requests to Britain and France.&nbsp;

Mauricio released a statement from his office stating that a formal request has been sent to the governments of Great Britain and France asking search Sala to resume.&nbsp;

The statement read, "President Mauricio Macri instructed foreign minister Jorge Faurie to make a formal request to the governments of Great Britain and France to ask them to maintain the search efforts."

It is expected that Mr Faurie will make the request to both nations' embassies soon.&nbsp;

Argentine footballer <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-requests-authorities-to-resume-search-for-missing-argentine-footballer-emiliano-sala-192878">Lionel Messi has also urged</a> the authorities to continue the search.&nbsp;

Messi wrote on his Instagram, "While there are possibilities, a thread of hope, we ask you to please do not stop looking."

Earlier, Romina Sala, sister of missing footballer Sala, made an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/please-dont-stop-the-search-emiliano-salas-sister-pleads-192598">emotional plea to continue the search</a>.

"It is very difficult at the moment. I feel very confused. The only thing I want is for my brother to be found, for the pilot to be found," she said.&nbsp;

"I feel that they are alive and that they are OK and that they are waiting for us," she added.

When the search was called off,&nbsp;the rescuers had mentioned that chances of finding either of them alive were almost vanishingly slim.&nbsp;

Mauricio Macri, President of Argentina, came forward and joined calls for the search for missing Cardiff City footballer Emiliano Sala to resume. Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since Monday night.

Mauricio Macri, President of Argentina, came forward and joined calls for the search for missing Cardiff City footballer Emiliano Sala to resume. Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since Monday night. Rescuers said on Thursday that they had ended the search stating that the chances of survival of both, pilot and footballer, were extremely remote. As per an official statement, Macri told his foreign minister to issue formal requests to Britain and France. Mauricio released a statement from his office stating that a formal request has been sent to the governments of Great Britain and France asking search Sala to resume. The statement read, "President Mauricio Macri instructed foreign minister Jorge Faurie to make a formal request to the governments of Great Britain and France to ask them to maintain the search efforts." It is expected that Mr Faurie will make the request to both nations' embassies soon. Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has also urged the authorities to continue the search. Messi wrote on his Instagram, "While there are possibilities, a thread of hope, we ask you to please do not stop looking." Earlier, Romina Sala, sister of missing footballer Sala, made an emotional plea to continue the search. "It is very difficult at the moment. I feel very confused. The only thing I want is for my brother to be found, for the pilot to be found," she said. "I feel that they are alive and that they are OK and that they are waiting for us," she added. When the search was called off, the rescuers had mentioned that chances of finding either of them alive were almost vanishingly slim.

Argentine president Mauricio Macri requests new search for footballer Emiliano Sala

Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has urged the authorities to continue the search for the plane carrying Premier League football player <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/factbox-cardiff-city-striker-emiliano-sala-192054">Emiliano Sala</a> which disappeared over the English Channel a few days ago.

Rescuers said on Thursday they had <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/rescuers-end-search-for-missing-plane-carrying-football-star-emiliano-sala-192562">ended the search</a> stating that the chances of survival were extremely remote.&nbsp;

Messi wrote on his Instagram, "While there are possibilities, a thread of hope, we ask you to please do not stop looking."

He added, "All my strength and support to your family and friends."

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/please-dont-stop-the-search-emiliano-salas-sister-pleads-192598">'Please don't stop the search': Emiliano Sala's sister pleads</a>

Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since Monday night.&nbsp;

Rescuers had mentioned that chances of finding either of them alive were almost vanishingly slim.&nbsp;

A recording had since emerged of a fearful voice message Sala apparently sent in which he expressed concerns about the single-engine Piper Malibu aircraft he was flying in.&nbsp;

The 28-year-old Argentina-born forward was en route from Nantes in western France to make his debut for Welsh team Cardiff City.

Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has urged the authorities to continue the search for the plane carrying Premier League football player Emiliano Sala which disappeared over the English Channel a few days ago.

Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has urged the authorities to continue the search for the plane carrying Premier League football player Emiliano Sala which disappeared over the English Channel a few days ago. Rescuers said on Thursday they had ended the search stating that the chances of survival were extremely remote. Messi wrote on his Instagram, "While there are possibilities, a thread of hope, we ask you to please do not stop looking." He added, "All my strength and support to your family and friends." Also Read: 'Please don't stop the search': Emiliano Sala's sister pleads Cardiff City's new signing Sala and the aircraft's pilot, David Ibbotson, have been missing since Monday night. Rescuers had mentioned that chances of finding either of them alive were almost vanishingly slim. A recording had since emerged of a fearful voice message Sala apparently sent in which he expressed concerns about the single-engine Piper Malibu aircraft he was flying in. The 28-year-old Argentina-born forward was en route from Nantes in western France to make his debut for Welsh team Cardiff City.

Lionel Messi requests authorities to resume search for missing Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni is hopeful for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=lionel+messi">Lionel Messi</a>'s possible return to international football after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hosts-brazil-face-peru-venezuela-bolivia-in-copa-america-192703">Copa America 2019</a> group draw at Cidade das Artes in Rio de Janeiro.&nbsp;

Messi took a sabbatical from the national side after disappointing World Cup and now Argentina are desperate to end a trophy drought that dates back to 1993 when they last won the Copa America.&nbsp;

Messi has not said whether he will return for the Copa America in Brazil in June but the interim coach said at the draw that he was hopeful the inspiring forward might return for a March friendly.&nbsp;

"Well, for now, obviously, he hasn't been here. I can't be thinking about something that we don't know how it will go. Like I said in my last interview, hopefully, he could be," Argentina coach Scaloni commented on Messi's return.&nbsp;

Scaloni added, "I will have a chat with him before giving the final list of players, talk to him. We have good feelings."&nbsp;

The draw gave Argentina the toughest path of the top-seeded teams as it was placed in a group with Colombia, Paraguay and guest nation Qatar.&nbsp;

"Uruguay's group (C) is not easy as well. If you take a look, Chile is a tough opponent. I believe you will always look for a 'but' if something happens," said Scaloni.&nbsp;

"Honestly, it is a complicated competition, to play in South America is complicated and it's not worthy to look behind. May the future bring positive things," he added.&nbsp;

The top two teams in each group, plus the two best third-place finishers, qualify for the quarterfinals.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni is hopeful for Lionel Messi's possible return to international football after the Copa America 2019 group draw at Cidade das Artes in Rio de Janeiro.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni is hopeful for Lionel Messi's possible return to international football after the Copa America 2019 group draw at Cidade das Artes in Rio de Janeiro. Messi took a sabbatical from the national side after disappointing World Cup and now Argentina are desperate to end a trophy drought that dates back to 1993 when they last won the Copa America. Messi has not said whether he will return for the Copa America in Brazil in June but the interim coach said at the draw that he was hopeful the inspiring forward might return for a March friendly. "Well, for now, obviously, he hasn't been here. I can't be thinking about something that we don't know how it will go. Like I said in my last interview, hopefully, he could be," Argentina coach Scaloni commented on Messi's return. Scaloni added, "I will have a chat with him before giving the final list of players, talk to him. We have good feelings." The draw gave Argentina the toughest path of the top-seeded teams as it was placed in a group with Colombia, Paraguay and guest nation Qatar. "Uruguay's group (C) is not easy as well. If you take a look, Chile is a tough opponent. I believe you will always look for a 'but' if something happens," said Scaloni. "Honestly, it is a complicated competition, to play in South America is complicated and it's not worthy to look behind. May the future bring positive things," he added. The top two teams in each group, plus the two best third-place finishers, qualify for the quarterfinals.

'Hope Messi can play in Copa America,' says Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni

Lionel Messi was left out of Barcelona's squad to face Sevilla in their Copa del Rey quarter-final, first leg on Wednesday, while Kevin-Prince Boateng was included after he completed a loan move from Sassuolo.

Coach Ernesto Valverde left forward Messi and midfielder Sergio Busquets out of the squad he named on Tuesday as he looks to protect his key players' fitness.

Last season Barcelona's players appeared tired by the time they suffered a humiliating 3-0 Champions League defeat by AS Roma in April, which dumped them out of the competition at the quarter-final stage.

After seeing Real Madrid win the Champions League last season for the fourth time in five years, former Barcelona captain Carles Puyol said that the Catalans needed "to reflect" on their priorities.

Messi was also left out of Barca's 2-1 defeat to Levante in the last-16, first leg but scored in a 3-0 second-leg win, and came off the bench to help Barcelona beat Leganes 3-1 on Sunday in La Liga.

Midfielder Boateng was presented as a Barcelona player on Tuesday and was immediately included in the squad to travel to Andalusia.

Lionel Messi was left out of Barcelona's squad to face Sevilla in their Copa del Rey quarter-final, first leg on Wednesday, while Kevin-Prince Boateng was included after he completed a loan move from Sassuolo.

Lionel Messi was left out of Barcelona's squad to face Sevilla in their Copa del Rey quarter-final, first leg on Wednesday, while Kevin-Prince Boateng was included after he completed a loan move from Sassuolo. Coach Ernesto Valverde left forward Messi and midfielder Sergio Busquets out of the squad he named on Tuesday as he looks to protect his key players' fitness. Last season Barcelona's players appeared tired by the time they suffered a humiliating 3-0 Champions League defeat by AS Roma in April, which dumped them out of the competition at the quarter-final stage. After seeing Real Madrid win the Champions League last season for the fourth time in five years, former Barcelona captain Carles Puyol said that the Catalans needed "to reflect" on their priorities. Messi was also left out of Barca's 2-1 defeat to Levante in the last-16, first leg but scored in a 3-0 second-leg win, and came off the bench to help Barcelona beat Leganes 3-1 on Sunday in La Liga. Midfielder Boateng was presented as a Barcelona player on Tuesday and was immediately included in the squad to travel to Andalusia.

Lionel Messi left out of Barcelona squad to face Sevilla in cup, Boateng in

Barcelona on Monday announced the surprise loan signing of Kevin-Prince Boateng from Italian side Sassuolo until the end of the season.

The La Liga leaders confirmed the arrival of the German-born former Ghana international in a statement, adding that the club also have an option to make the deal permanent for a fee of 8 million euros ($9 million).

Barcelona have been linked to a host of forwards during the winter transfer window as they seek experienced backup options for Luis Suarez. The club let youngster Munir El Haddadi join Sevilla at the start of the month after he refused the offer of a new contract at the Catalan club.

Moves for Cristhian Stuani of Girona and Los Angeles FC's Mexican international Carlos Vela were rebuffed, with Boateng emerging as a surprise target earlier on Monday in the Spanish press.

An attacking midfielder by trade, Boateng has operated as a forward for the midtable Serie A outfit during the first half of this season, scoring four times in 11 starts.

He spent the 2016-17 season in Spain with Canary Islands side Las Palmas, netting 10 goals in 28 La Liga appearances, and will be presented officially at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.

Barcelona on Monday announced the surprise loan signing of Kevin-Prince Boateng from Italian side Sassuolo until the end of the season. The La Liga leaders confirmed the arrival of the German-born former Ghana international in a statement, adding that the club also have an option to make the deal permanent for a fee of 8 million euros ($9 million).

Barcelona on Monday announced the surprise loan signing of Kevin-Prince Boateng from Italian side Sassuolo until the end of the season. The La Liga leaders confirmed the arrival of the German-born former Ghana international in a statement, adding that the club also have an option to make the deal permanent for a fee of 8 million euros ($9 million). Barcelona have been linked to a host of forwards during the winter transfer window as they seek experienced backup options for Luis Suarez. The club let youngster Munir El Haddadi join Sevilla at the start of the month after he refused the offer of a new contract at the Catalan club. Moves for Cristhian Stuani of Girona and Los Angeles FC's Mexican international Carlos Vela were rebuffed, with Boateng emerging as a surprise target earlier on Monday in the Spanish press. An attacking midfielder by trade, Boateng has operated as a forward for the midtable Serie A outfit during the first half of this season, scoring four times in 11 starts. He spent the 2016-17 season in Spain with Canary Islands side Las Palmas, netting 10 goals in 28 La Liga appearances, and will be presented officially at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.

Barcelona make surprise Kevin-Prince Boateng signing

Lionel Messi came off the bench to inspire Barcelona to a 3-1 win over a dogged Leganes side on Sunday, creating one goal and scoring another to keep the Catalans five points clear at the top of La Liga.

Messi, left out of the starting line-up for only the second time this season when fit, was called on in the 64th minute with the game poised at 1-1 after Leganes forward Martin Braithwaite had cancelled out Ousmane Dembele's first-half opener with a 57th-minute strike.

The Argentine quickly provided the spark Barca needed by firing a venomous shot from the outside the area which was too powerful for goalkeeper Ivan Cuellar to hold, and Luis Suarez pounced to stab home on the rebound in the 71st minute.

The goal was awarded after a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) review, with Leganes furiously claiming that Suarez had fouled Cuellar, who needed treatment on the pitch after being struck by the foot of the Uruguayan striker.

Messi made sure of the victory in stoppage-time, sweeping across the area and hammering the ball past a helpless Cuellar for his 18th goal of the season in La Liga, taking leaders Barca on to 46 points, five clear of nearest challengers Atletico Madrid, after 20 games.

"We played well, Leganes could do nothing in attack but we were just lacking precision in the final pass. They then scored out of nothing, but Leo came on and did what we know he can do," said Barca midfielder Sergio Busquets.

WORRYING SCENES

There were worrying scenes for Barca when France forward Dembele was forced off injured midway through the second half after writhing on the floor in pain. The club later confirmed he had sprained his ankle.

Dembele has shaken off previous criticism over lapses in discipline to become one of Barca's most productive players in recent weeks.

With Messi resting on the bench in the first half, Dembele was the team's focal point in attack, frequently finding holes in the Leganes defence with thrilling bursts of pace and wild dribbles.

He put Barca in front shortly after the half-hour mark with a first-time shot in off the post, receiving a cut-back from Jordi Alba.

Dembele later combined with Philippe Coutinho which should have led to the Brazilian doubling Barca's lead, but the club's record signing fired just wide.

"Dembele has been in fantastic form recently after the controversy, he gives us speed, unpredictability and goals," added Busquets on the Frenchman's transformation.

"He was unlucky with the injury, we hope it's nothing."

Leganes, who stunned Barca by coming from behind to beat the champions 2-1 at home back in September, also refused to give in after conceding the opener and after limiting Barca's attempts to stretch their lead, they drew level.

Danish forward Braithwaite slid in to meet a perfectly- weighted cross from Youssef En Nesyri and knock the ball into the net from close range for a second goal in four days after scoring against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey.

Dembele narrowly fired wide, so Barca coach Ernesto Valverde turned to Messi to see Leganes off, and the club's all-time top scorer duly delivered.

Lionel Messi came off the bench to inspire Barcelona to a 3-1 win over a dogged Leganes side on Sunday, creating one goal and scoring another to keep the Catalans five points clear at the top of La Liga.

Lionel Messi came off the bench to inspire Barcelona to a 3-1 win over a dogged Leganes side on Sunday, creating one goal and scoring another to keep the Catalans five points clear at the top of La Liga. Messi, left out of the starting line-up for only the second time this season when fit, was called on in the 64th minute with the game poised at 1-1 after Leganes forward Martin Braithwaite had cancelled out Ousmane Dembele's first-half opener with a 57th-minute strike. The Argentine quickly provided the spark Barca needed by firing a venomous shot from the outside the area which was too powerful for goalkeeper Ivan Cuellar to hold, and Luis Suarez pounced to stab home on the rebound in the 71st minute. The goal was awarded after a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) review, with Leganes furiously claiming that Suarez had fouled Cuellar, who needed treatment on the pitch after being struck by the foot of the Uruguayan striker. Messi made sure of the victory in stoppage-time, sweeping across the area and hammering the ball past a helpless Cuellar for his 18th goal of the season in La Liga, taking leaders Barca on to 46 points, five clear of nearest challengers Atletico Madrid, after 20 games. "We played well, Leganes could do nothing in attack but we were just lacking precision in the final pass. They then scored out of nothing, but Leo came on and did what we know he can do," said Barca midfielder Sergio Busquets. WORRYING SCENES There were worrying scenes for Barca when France forward Dembele was forced off injured midway through the second half after writhing on the floor in pain. The club later confirmed he had sprained his ankle. Dembele has shaken off previous criticism over lapses in discipline to become one of Barca's most productive players in recent weeks. With Messi resting on the bench in the first half, Dembele was the team's focal point in attack, frequently finding holes in the Leganes defence with thrilling bursts of pace and wild dribbles. He put Barca in front shortly after the half-hour mark with a first-time shot in off the post, receiving a cut-back from Jordi Alba. Dembele later combined with Philippe Coutinho which should have led to the Brazilian doubling Barca's lead, but the club's record signing fired just wide. "Dembele has been in fantastic form recently after the controversy, he gives us speed, unpredictability and goals," added Busquets on the Frenchman's transformation. "He was unlucky with the injury, we hope it's nothing." Leganes, who stunned Barca by coming from behind to beat the champions 2-1 at home back in September, also refused to give in after conceding the opener and after limiting Barca's attempts to stretch their lead, they drew level. Danish forward Braithwaite slid in to meet a perfectly- weighted cross from Youssef En Nesyri and knock the ball into the net from close range for a second goal in four days after scoring against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey. Dembele narrowly fired wide, so Barca coach Ernesto Valverde turned to Messi to see Leganes off, and the club's all-time top scorer duly delivered.

La Liga: Lionel Messi called off the bench to sink Leganes

La Liga champions Barcelona became the first soccer team to spend over half a billion euros in wages after their staff costs shot up by 42 per cent over the past year, according to a study by KPMG.

KPMG's Football Benchmark study analysed the squads and finances of the respective champions of Europe's top eight leagues.

The Catalans, who signed Brazil playmaker Philippe Coutinho from Liverpool in January 2018 for a club record 160 million euros ($183 million), have staff costs of 562 million euros a year.

Along with the arrival of France forward Ousmane Dembele in August 2017 and the renewal of several players' contracts, including talisman Lionel Messi's, their expenditure in this field has increased hugely.

Paris St Germain have the second highest wage bill on the KPMG list at 332 million euros, an increase of 20 per cent.

Expenditure on wages rose across the board with the exception of Premier League champions Manchester City, who saw their spending on wages fall five per cent.

The report says Manchester City have the most valuable team, worth a total of 1.182 billion euros, while PSG duo Neymar (229 million) and Kylian Mbappe (215 million) are the most valuable players in the world, followed by Messi (203 million).

La Liga champions Barcelona became the first soccer team to spend over half a billion euros in wages after their staff costs shot up by 42 per cent over the past year, according to a study by KPMG.

La Liga champions Barcelona became the first soccer team to spend over half a billion euros in wages after their staff costs shot up by 42 per cent over the past year, according to a study by KPMG. KPMG's Football Benchmark study analysed the squads and finances of the respective champions of Europe's top eight leagues. The Catalans, who signed Brazil playmaker Philippe Coutinho from Liverpool in January 2018 for a club record 160 million euros ($183 million), have staff costs of 562 million euros a year. Along with the arrival of France forward Ousmane Dembele in August 2017 and the renewal of several players' contracts, including talisman Lionel Messi's, their expenditure in this field has increased hugely. Paris St Germain have the second highest wage bill on the KPMG list at 332 million euros, an increase of 20 per cent. Expenditure on wages rose across the board with the exception of Premier League champions Manchester City, who saw their spending on wages fall five per cent. The report says Manchester City have the most valuable team, worth a total of 1.182 billion euros, while PSG duo Neymar (229 million) and Kylian Mbappe (215 million) are the most valuable players in the world, followed by Messi (203 million).

Barcelona first team to spend half-a-billion euros on wages: Reports

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi added another feather in his illustrious cap by becoming the first player to score 400 goals in La Liga when he netted against Eibar on Sunday.

The Argentine, who has been the competition's all-time top scorer since 2014, struck the second goal of a 3-0 win at the Nou Camp early in the second half.

Messi, who is also the club's all-time top scorer, was given a fittingly ecstatic reception by the Barca fans.

"Obviously, we have to be very proud of Messi because every week he demonstrates how good he is and continues to make history with the club," said Luis Suarez, who scored Barca's other two goals in a win that kept them five points clear at the top of La Liga.

Messi, named Barca captain at the start of this season, was making his 435th La Liga appearance for the club, having made his league debut in 2004.

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi added another feather in his illustrious cap by becoming the first player to score 400 goals in La Liga when he netted against Eibar on Sunday.

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi added another feather in his illustrious cap by becoming the first player to score 400 goals in La Liga when he netted against Eibar on Sunday. The Argentine, who has been the competition's all-time top scorer since 2014, struck the second goal of a 3-0 win at the Nou Camp early in the second half. Messi, who is also the club's all-time top scorer, was given a fittingly ecstatic reception by the Barca fans. "Obviously, we have to be very proud of Messi because every week he demonstrates how good he is and continues to make history with the club," said Luis Suarez, who scored Barca's other two goals in a win that kept them five points clear at the top of La Liga. Messi, named Barca captain at the start of this season, was making his 435th La Liga appearance for the club, having made his league debut in 2004.

Lionel Messi becomes first player to score 400 goals in La Liga

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