Barcelona player ratings after tight victory against APOEL Nicosia

Barcelona failed to lay down a marker against vastly inferior opposition in their Champions League opener against APOEL Nicosia, but took the three points thanks to a first half header by Gerard Pique. Here’s how the players fared at Camp Nou.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen 6

Hardly had a busy debut but looked assured with the ball at his feet (and with his head), and saved smartly from Gustavo Manduca’s 25-yard strike in injury time.

Dani Alves 6

Struggled to contribute to attack in usual manner but did as asked of him at the back, snuffing out the danger on APOEL’s left flank.

Gerard Pique 7

Eluded his marker in a crowded box to head in the only goal of the game. Comfortable at the back but rarely tested.

Marc Bartra 7

Anticipated APOEL’s rare moments of danger well, cutting out a through ball in the first half and blocking Tomas De Vincenti’s goal-bound shot in the second.

Adriano 6

Made a rare start as Jordi Alba was rested but made few arguments to be named ahead of the Spain international very often in the future.

Sergi Roberto 5

Started ahead of Andres Iniesta but once again looked like a Catalan Tom Cleverley, doing little more than playing short sideways passes, occasionally sloppy ones.

Sergi Samper 6

Making his competitive debut for Barca, the youngster looked a tad nervous, making the odd misplaced pass, but has the makings of a future first team regular.

Xavi 6

Made his first start of the season to draw level with Raul as the no 1 Champions League appearance make. Did not put in the strong performance he needed, although nearly provided Neymar with a marvellous chipped assist, which the Brazilian failed to connect with. Replaced by Iniesta after an hour.

Munir El Haddadi 7

Making his fourth consecutive start, the 19-year-old was lively once again in attack and chipped in with defensive work too. Had a goal correctly ruled offside in the second half.

Lionel Messi 8

Provided the cross for Pique’s header from a free-kick - his fourth assist in three games - and was more focused on providing than scoring. Denied by Urko Pardo late on from close range.

Neymar 8

Barca’s most lively attacker, he clicked well with Messi but somehow squandered a gilt-edged chance late on, shooting straight at Pardo from six yards out.