Partido perfecto con buenas sensaciones

Barcelona were able to enjoy the perfect game against Espanyol. Everything went right for them. Dembélé made his debut and set up a goal, Rakitic was excellent in the midfield – and Barça look much stronger for it – Deulofeu is showing clear signs of improvement and Messi is still Messi. Jordi Alba was also back to his best.

But as always, it was Messi who made the difference. He scored three goals that killed Espanyol. Another game, more evidence that Barça having Leo Messi is more important than anything.

Barcelona put in a great performance and now have three wins out of three, and go to bed at the top of the table with a fantastic record – not just three wins, but nine goals scored and none conceded.

This was a performance that gives Barça fans optimism for the upcoming games, especially Tuesday’s game against Juventus. The midfield looked much better with Busquets, Rakitic and Iniesta in there. The three played well and suggested that they could reach a level they weren’t able to last year.

Barça recovered the pressure and intensity that characterises them at their best. They were fluid with the ball and dominated possession – another promising sign for this team.