Lionel Messi double sinks Real Madrid

While the first half was full on tension, both teams were playing it safe with no real action in front of goal.

After the half time whistle, both teams came together before they went off the pitch and Bercelona’s second choice goalkeeper Jose Pinto was shown a red card.

The second half started with both teams looking dangerous in front of goal, but it was Barcelona that started to pile on the pressure.

Sergio Ramos received a yellow card for a hard block on Messi which will see him miss the next match.

Events turned for the worse for Real Madrid as Pepe was sent off for a ugly challenge on Dani Alves.

Jose Mourinho contested the red card as he sarcastically praised the fourth official and was sent to the stands.

The match was now in Barcelona’s favour and they made a point to take advantage of the weakened Real Madrid side.

Lionel Messi left no chance for Real Madrid goalkeeper Casillas as he dribbled past Ramos to give Barcelona the lead on the 75^th  minute.

Twelve minutes later, it was Lionel Messi again as he dribbled past three defenders to find the back of the net with his precise shot.

Barcelona go into the second leg of the semi-final with a great advantage as Real Madrid truly need a miracle if they are to make it to the Champions League final.