Levante made it tough for Barcelona on Saturday, and although the match didn’t end without controversy, we still got what we’ve come to expect: A Barcelona win, and a couple of Lionel Messi goals.
An early (generously given) penalty kick put the underdogs up early, giving Levante a 1-0 lead they took into half time.
Apparently, the break gave Lionel Messi enough time to find a new controller, because in the second half, his personal version of FIFA resumed.
The first goal was a Messi special: give, move, strike. This time he didn’t quite get his shot around the opposing `keeper (Gustavo Munúa), but it had enough power to get through his hands to find nylon.
Goal number two is where the controversy comes. Conspiracy theorists are already insisting the call was too generous, but from the reverse angle (behind the goal) you see Pedro Botelho put two hands on Isaac Cuenca and ride him to ground. Even if the foul was not severe enough for some, it was a foul, and when those occur in penalty areas, penalty kicks occur.
Firing into the upper right of goal, Messi sealed Barcelona’s victory, returning Real Madrid’s lead to four points.
OK - enough from me. Here are your highlights: