Barcelona Crush Bayern Munich with Messi Masterclass in Champions League Semi-Final
Bayern Munich held firm for 75 minutes at Camp Nou on Wednesday before succumbing to a late surge from FC Barcelona in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final. A devastating brace from Lionel Messi and a clinical finish by Neymar secured a commanding 3-0 victory for the Catalans.
Messi was the standout performer, scoring twice and providing an assist, further cementing his status as Barcelona’s talisman. His all-around display, combining attacking brilliance with defensive work, drew praise from coach Luis Enrique.
“Lionel Messi is a player of another dimension,” Enrique said. “It’s a pleasure to see him every day in training. But beyond his attacking contributions, consider what he did in defense. The whole team performed exceptionally well.”
Enrique highlighted the team’s tactical discipline, noting their effective pressing and defensive organisation that helped regain possession high up the pitch—crucial for the opening goal.
“We knew how to capitalise when Bayern took risks,” Enrique added. “With three world-class players up front, Leo was able to turn the game in our favour, and we were clinical in the final minutes.”
The emphatic win gives Barcelona a significant advantage heading into the second leg, leaving Bayern with a tough task to overturn the deficit and keep their Champions League hopes ali.
