Football
ESPN staff 9y

Neymar taking penalty over Lionel Messi doesn't concern Luis Enrique

Barcelona's players decided that Neymar should take their penalty instead of Lionel Messi against Villarreal, according to coach Luis Enrique.

With Barca leading 3-1 in their Copa del Rey semifinal first leg, the home side at the Camp Nou were awarded a penalty when Mateo Musacchi handballed.

Messi is the team's usual penalty taker but Brazil international Neymar stepped up only to see the spot kick saved by goalkeeper Sergio Asenjo.

"Messi takes the penalties," he said. "Today they decided together that Neymar would take it. I guess Neymar must have asked.

"I have full confidence in both, but Messi is our penalty taker. Neymar is second on the list, it was a decision they made themselves."

Barca's win over Villarreal was their 10th consecutive triumph in all competitions, although the club still trail leaders Real Madrid by one point in La Liga.

^ Back to Top ^