WATCH : Lionel Messi scores a sumptuous free-kick

Oh Lionel Messi!

The magical Argentine came to Barcelona’s aid once again, as Lionel Messi scored a sensational free-kick to hand the Catalans a come form behind victory against a plucky Alaves side.

John Guidetti gave the visitors a shock lead, as Alaves went ahead after 23 minutes. The Spanish side showed a lot of guts as they held Barcelona at the Nou Camp.

This game also marked the home debut of Philippe Coutinho. The latest Barcelona midfielder made his first appearance a few days ago, when he came on for the great Andres Iniesta.

Coutinho, who is earmarked to be the eventual successor to the great Spaniard, was openly welcomed by the fans. His nimble footwork and razor sharp passes, will now grace the Nou Camp.

The Brazilian though could not exert much influence in the match, as Alaves held on and thwarted the Barcelona attack at every instance.

Luis Suarez though pulled one back, as the striker scored in the 72 minute to set up a barnstorming finale.

Eventually it was back to Lionel Messi to rescue Barcelona, as the great man scored a superb free-kick to win the match in the 84th minute.

At the edge of the box, Messi curled in a brilliant goal as the goal keeper was rooted to the spot. Messi wheeled away in celebration, as all his team mates engulfed the incredible Argentine.

Messi was clearly in the mood, as he was preparing for Barcelona’s quarter-final clash against the reigning English champions Chelsea.

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