Barcelona player ratings: Strikers fail to break through

Claudio Bravo 5

Had nothing much to do, but was nearly beaten by a 50-yard strike by Juanka while out of his box.

Sergi Roberto 6

Fitting in at right-back with little fuss. Not as dynamic as against Athletic Club last weekend, but offered an option when needed on the wing.

Javier Mascherano 7

Nearly ended a 141 game run without scoring in La Liga, but his header hit the bar. A couple of good tackles, including one to stop a Cop break.

Thomas Vermaelen 8

Solid as you like at the back, the Belgian is finally getting to strut his stuff at Camp Nou. Popped up with the winner too, blasting home from close range.

Jordi Alba 7

Barcelona look a lot better now he's back in the team - they really missed him in the Spanish Super Cup.

Sergio Busquets 6

Given Malaga's lack of derring-do, his influence as a defensive midfielder was limited. Moved the ball well and had a shot saved by Kameni.

Ivan Rakitic 5

Offered very little in an attacking sense, though did little wrong either. Hooked for Rafinha as Lucho looked to change the game.

Andres Iniesta 7

Two brilliant runs nearly helped Barcelona make the breakthrough, but poor finishing from the forwards kept the score level.

Lionel Messi 7

At times seemed to be engaging in a battle with Kameni, which the goalkeeper won, denying the Argentine four times in the second half. 

Luis Suarez 6

Scored, but was adjudged to have fouled Angeleri. Fouled in the box by the same defender, but no penalty given.

Neymar 7

Started off strongly but tired as the interval approached. Did well for his first game back.

SUBSTITUTES

Rafinha 7 

Brought energy and ideas, which the man he replaced - Rakitic - lacked on this occasion.

Sandro N/A

Mathieu N/A