Lionel Messi's first goal in nine Champions League games against Chelsea gave Barcelona a potentially vital away goal as they rode their luck to earn a draw in the first leg of their last-16 tie at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues had subdued Messi, and Willian had struck the woodwork twice in the first half before a fine low finish from the edge of the area made it third time lucky for the Brazilian and gave Antonio Conte's side a deserved lead after 62 minutes.
Barcelona had barely threatened but a misplaced pass from Andreas Christensen gave Andres Iniesta the opportunity to allow Messi to end his 730-minute drought against Chelsea with a crisp left-foot drive 15 minutes from time.
It was cruel on the hosts after an outstanding display - but gives Barca the advantage of an away goal for the return leg at the Nou Camp on Wednesday, 14 March.
The result does mean none of the English teams have lost in their last-16 first-leg ties so far.
Liverpool beat Porto 5-0, Manchester City defeated Basel 4-0, Tottenham drew 2-2 at Juventus.Manchester United visit Sevilla on Wednesday.
In Tuesday's other Champions League match, German champions Bayern Munich thrashed Besiktas 5-0 after the Turkish side had Domagoj Vida sent off in the 16th minute.
Hi! I am a robot. I just upvoted you! I found similar content that readers might be interested in:
http://www.bbc.com/sport/football/43117810
Downvoting a post can decrease pending rewards and make it less visible. Common reasons:
Submit