Messi Takes Barcelona Back To Victory Path

Lionel Messi after scoring against Levante (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - Lionel Messi brought Barcelona back to winning ways by beating Levante 1-0 in Week 13 of the Spanish League at the Camp Nou Stadium, Barcelona, Spain, Sunday local time (Monday WIB).

The superstar broke the deadlock in the 76th minute after picking up a fine pass from Frenkie de Jong and finishing it off with a shot that hit the post before burrowing into the net.

Earlier, Levante had the chance to take the lead in the 12th minute when Jorge de Frutos had a golden opportunity in front of goal without a hitch, but his shot was straight into the arms of goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

Nine minutes later, it was Antoine Griezmann's turn to almost put Barcelona ahead when he met Messi's free-kick, but his header was stopped by keeper Aitor Fernandez.

Antes / Después pic.twitter.com/BapMn7TO4l

- FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) December 13, 2020

Even though the victory didn't seem too convincing, Barcelona managed to keep a winning record every time they hosted Levante in the Spanish League in 15 meetings.

The result also returned Barcelona to winning ways after losing their last two matches in all competitions.

Ronald Koeman's team jumped up to eighth in the standings with a collection of 17 points, while Levante (11) slipped into the relegation zone in 18th place, Antara noted on the official Spanish League website.

⏰ Final del partido⚽ # BarçaLevante (1-0) 👟 Leo #Messi pic.twitter.com/FnCs0tlrzc

- FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) December 13, 2020

Barcelona will next host Real Sociedad in Matchday 19 which is put forward for Wednesday 16 December to kick off the schedule for the Spanish Super Cup in January.

Meanwhile, Levante only played on Saturday, December 19, also facing Sociedad at the Ciutat de Valencia Stadium.