Five star Barça progress (5-1)
FC Barcelona eased into the next round of the Copa del Rey with a 5-1 triumph over Ceuta in their second leg encounter on Wednesday evening thanks to goals from Nolito, Gaby Milito, Pedro, Bojan Krkic and Lionel Messi.
After winning the opening encounter by two goals the Blaugrana progressed 7-1 won aggregate and they rewarded the 38,971 who braved a chilly midweek evening to cheer them on with a goalfest and a game of great intensity. Having won the first meeting between the teams coach Pep Guardiola chose to name B team starlets Marc Bartra, Thiago Alcantára and Nolito in the starting line-up and the choice paid dividends as they showed that they could cope comfortably with the step up once again.
Spectacular start
Barça began the game clearly proving that they were keen to put the outcome of the tie beyond doubt and it was Nolito that broke the deadlock after just two minutes as he showed great skill to score. The same player then went close four minutes later as he shone and showed just why Guardiola is keen to give him a chance at the highest level. It was Nolito then turned provider as his corner was met by Milito and he beat the keeper before wheeling away to celebrate.
Red and penalty
The level of play did not drop despite the four-goal cushion across the two legs and Gilson looked to restore some pride for the visitors as he sent a shot goalwards only for it to cannon back off the crossbar. Moments later and the drama was at the other end as Bojan drew Vítor Moreno and he was shown a red card after giving away a penalty. The Blaugrana forward chose to take the spot-kick himself, but he then saw his effort hit the woodwork and bounce away. Ceuta did indeed step up their game and actually managed to find a way through the Barça rearguard when Guzmán found the net.
Milito was then reduced to tears as he suffered an injury that meant he to make an early withdrawal and Éric Abidal was sent on to replace him.
Pedro and Bojan
After the break Barça stepped up another gear and Pedro made it 3-1 with a fine effort from the right just five minutes into the second period. Bojan made up for his penalty miss in the 65 minute as he was set up by Messi, who had entered the fray in place of Pedro. The Argentinian then added to his incredible goal tally for Barça with the home team's fifth of the night in the 67th minute.
Sergi Roberto
Sergi Roberto was given a chance to show what he can do as he replaced Maxwell and the youngster made his mark on his first-team debut in midfield. With Guardiola keen to promote from within and all the homegrown talent did well and will have gained great experience from their appearance alongside the first-team regulars.
following the nation's dismal showing at the World Cup finals in South Africa.