Five keys to FC Barcelona's rout over AS Roma

Messi scored twice in his return to Camp Nou. MIGUEL RUIZ / FCB
Goals from Messi and Suárez, the sure-handed Ter Stegen, the role of Luis Enrique and the fans were all keys to the big win

Suárez

The Uruguayan has scored 17 goals in 19 official games this season. But Suárez doesn’t just score; he also works tirelessly to help his teammates, like on Messi’s first goal. He also comes up with steals, like he did in the first half with Dzeko, in what was a very typical play.


Messi

The Argentine returned at the Bernabéu on Saturday and against Roma he was a starter. He was very active and dynamic from kick off, and his first goal in the 18th minute was a masterpiece. In the second half he completed his performance with a second goal that made his return to the Camp Nou perfect.


Ter Stegen

Although he couldn’t do anything on Roma’s late goal, Ter Stegen again demonstrated his skill in net. The German goalkeeper stopped a penalty on Dzeko much like he did last season against Manchester City’s Agüero in the Champions League. With Ter Stegen, Bravo and Masip in goal, Barça are well covered.


Luis Enrique

The coach made some changes to the starting lineup and had success. The team is growing and have outscored their last two opponents10–1. The fans at Camp Nou recognized Luis Enrique’s efforts by chanting his name in the second half.


The 71,433 spectators

Despite the cold and the strict security measures prior to the match, the fans wanted to be with his team. And those who decided to go to the stadium and overcome all the obstacles were rewarded by another fine show. The rout puts Barça into the last 16 as Group E winner.