David Villa scored the first goal of the game, capping off a pass from Lionel Messi in the 26th minute and Barcelona were cruising to an away win until halftime. Arsenal remained a constant threat to Barcelona’s goal throughout but even in the second half, Barca seemed content and in control.
When Messi started walking across the pitch and choosing which player to close down and which ball to run after, it seemed Barca were a bit too relaxed. Robin van Persie’s goal painted exactly the picture when Victor Valdes was caught strafing a bit too far away from the near post and a powerful shot went between him and his near post.
The second goal was merely a result of Barca trying to get forward as quickly as possible which led to Samir Nasri breaking away and then finding Andriy Arshavin on top of the 18 yard box – who, luckily, had two Barcelona defenders between him and the keeper.
Even though, Barcelona managed to break past the Gunners’ defense but couldn’t find the back of the net. The scoreline stood at 2-1 at full time and Barcelona will play the return leg in Camp Nou with an away goal to their favor.
Arsenal 0-1 Barcelona
Villa, 26′
Arsenal 1-1 Barcelona
van Persie, 78′
Arsenal 2-1 Barcelona
Arshavin, 83′
Also See: Arsenal v Barcelona Live.
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