‘MESSILESS’ BARCA EDGES PAST INTER WITH 2-NIL

‘MESSILESS’ BARCA EDGES PAST INTER WITH 2-NIL

Rafinha and Jordi Alba scored in Lionel Messi’s absence as Barcelona beat the Brazilian’s former club Inter 2-0 in the Champions League to move three points clear at the top of Group B.

Messi was absent due to a fractured arm that will keep him out for three weeks but Rafinha justified being brought into the team by opening the scoring in the first half at Camp Nou on Wednesday.

Luis Suarez sent in a brilliant cross and Rafinha slotted home against his old colleagues, with Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic in fine form before being beaten late on by Jordi Alba.

After taking maximum points from three rounds Barca are on the brink of qualification but Inter can expect to join them as they have a five-point cushion from winless PSV and Tottenham.