By Karim Hammam
Barcelona secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Aston Villa in the Champions League on Tuesday, handing Unai Emery another disappointing night at the Nou Camp on his 55th birthday. The win extended Emery's dismal record against the Catalan side to 15 defeats in 16 visits.
Early breakthrough
Lamine Yamal gave Barcelona the lead in the seventh minute after a misplaced goal-kick by Joao Gomes fell to the teenager, who curled a finish into the corner from 12 yards. Yamal became the highest-scoring teenager in Champions League history with the strike.
Villa waste opportunities
Aston Villa responded well and created a series of promising first-half chances. Matty Cash and Gomes both came close from corners, while Nicolas Jackson twice broke through only to be denied by goalkeeper Joan Garcia. Johan Manzambi also shot wide and saw another effort blocked by Garcia.
Raphinha doubles advantage
Barcelona punished those misses early in the second half. Fermin Lopez found Raphinha on the edge of the area and his shot deflected off Pau Torres' heel into the net in the 52nd minute. The Brazilian added a third in the 64th minute, tapping in from six yards after Joao Cancelo evaded John McGinn to cross. Raphinha has now scored 19 goals in 13 appearances this season.
Late dominance
Villa attempted a response, with Leon Goretzka hitting the post, but Barcelona remained in control. Another error from goalkeeper Zion Suzuki nearly led to a fourth, though he saved Fermin's follow-up. Yamal missed two further chances as the hosts cruised to victory in front of a watching Prince William.
