Messi opens the scoring with a precise left‑footed shot from the right side of the box into the center of the net, finishing a move set up by Ivan Rakitić. The goal puts Barcelona 1–0 ahead at Mestalla.

Messi cuts in from the left side of the box and fires a left‑footed shot toward the bottom left corner, but Diego Alves makes the save. The chance comes after a clever combination with Luis Suárez.

Messi threads a sharp pass into the area for Luis Suárez, whose right‑footed shot from the center of the box is saved. The move shows Messi’s vision as he creates a clear chance for his strike partner.

From a direct free kick outside the box, Messi’s left‑footed effort flies just too high over the bar. The shot has power and intent but narrowly misses the target.

Messi receives a yellow card after committing a foul in the second half, reflecting the heated nature of the contest. The booking comes shortly after a series of physical challenges.

Messi combines with Neymar on the left, feeding him inside the box where Neymar’s right‑footed shot is blocked. Messi’s pass helps carve open Valencia’s defense late in the game.

Deep into the second half, Messi calmly converts a decisive penalty with a left‑footed shot to the bottom left corner, making it 3–2 for Barcelona. His late spot‑kick secures all three points for the visitors.