Standard Sport assesses the individual performances from Arsenal's Champions League last-16 first-leg tie against Barcelona at Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
A second half brace from Lionel Messi left Arsenal facing the prospect of yet another elimination in the first Champions League knockout round.
The hosts had set out to on their task against Barcelona with purpose and drive, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain wasting an excellent early chance from close range.
Luis Enrique’s front three of Luis Suarez, Neymar and Messi also wasted their fair share of opportunities in the first period, with the Uruguayan in particular blowing a perfect close range header.
As Arsenal tired in the second period the holders picked them off with remorse. Within 16 seconds a Gerard Pique clearance was taken to the net as Neymar laid the ball into the path of Messi to tuck home with Petr Cech caught out.
On 83 minutes substitute Mathieu Flamini made his only notable contribution, diving in on Messi after Per Mertesacker had made a mess of his clearance. The Argentine converted from the spot, likely ending Arsenal’s Champions League journey.
But who starred in London on Tuesday night, and who had an evening to forget with the world watching? Head to the top of the article for Standard Sport's player ratings...
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