Messi's Penalty Rebound Gives Barça a Cup Leg Up

Published on 23-Jan-2015 by srijan213

Soccer    Soccer Daily Review

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Messi's Penalty Rebound Gives Barça a Cup Leg Up

Barcelona couldn't shake Atlético Madrid in their Copa Del Rey pairing, but did emerge from the first leg with a 1-0 advantage.

Atlético have been both a revelation and an inspiration for not-so-rich clubs. Although being 'way behind on the dosh-o-meter, Los Colchoneros have been rich in football.

But not every day sunny. Barça proved a tougher opponent than derby rivals Real Madrid.

In this match, Atlético tried to turn the tables on their opposition's favorite tactic and look for counter-attacks. Didn't work. And Los Blaugarnas do it better. With their favorite man, Lionel Messi, back in his prime, it was no surprise that he scored the first goal. In fact, the only goal:

Cat-like reflexes from Barça's little dude. That, and everyone else getting a late start, probably taking it for granted that he'd score on the first attempt.

Atletico could only manage a single shot on goal all night, and Messi gets off two in one penalty. Something to think about, Señor Simone.

So now, Atlético Madrid must find the drive that took them though the Real Madrid juggernaut, and do it before Barça visit for the return leg on 28 January.

Tall order, yes, but that's how legacies are made.