Lionel Messi produced another masterclass for Barcelona on Thursday night as Ernesto Valverde's side knocked two past Valencia in the fifth round of the Copa Del Rey.
The fact that Valencia midfielder Francis Coquelin resorted to literally stripping him of his shirt, pulling it over his head like an angry teenager who hates his school uniform, sums up Messi's mesmeric dominance at the Mestalla.
At one point, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner took the absolute piss by playing his own game with teammate Ivan Rakitic, effortlessly passing the ball to each other like nobody was watching.
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The pair are quite clearly enjoying themselves in the 86th minute as a helpless Valencia side resign themselves to defeat.
Philippe Coutinho netted his first goal for Barcelona in the 49th minute before Ivan Rakitic added a second eight minutes from time.
It was fairly routine for the La Liga leaders in the end, but they needed a stunning save from Cillessen to keep the score at 1-0 in the 73rd minute.
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Sergi Roberto was skinned down his side and a teasing cross was nodded back into the path of Jose Gaya, who was free in the six yards box.
It was a golden opportunity for the Spaniard to level matters, but just as the home supporters were about to leap out of their seats and celebrate, Cillessen produced an incredible one-handed save to deny Gaya.
The speed of reaction, coupled with the strength he showed in his right hand, is simply sensational.
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It had us and Twitter in a state of shock:
Can Barcelona retain the Copa Del Rey this season? Thoughts on Messi's antics against Valencia?
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Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: valencia, Football News, Football, Barcelona, Lionel Messi, Ivan Rakitic, La Liga
