Messi Shines, But Henry Continues to Struggle in Barcelona Victory

Lionel Messi was at the heart of Barcelona's difficult victory over Deportivo La Caruna at the Riazor today. The 2009 European Footballer of the Year, scored a brilliant opener following a swift turn before putting Barcelona ahead 10 minutes from the end with a well placed header.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic rounded off the scoring with brilliant volley as the giant Swede continues to display his wide range of skill. 

Deportivo had equalized in the first half thanks to an awful headed pass back to the goalkeeper by Sergio Busquets. Earlier this season, Busquets committed a similar mistake against Atletico Madrid allowing Sergio Aguero to grab a goal, but this time it was Adrian. 

Pep Guardiola to include Busquets over Toure Yaya was a confusing one. The Ivorian has not been pleased with the amount of playing time he received and has been linked all season with a move away from the Camp Nou. 

In addition to Busquets, Thierry Henry flattered to impress once again. After scoring midweek against Xerez, the France captain was caught off sides on numerous occasions and rarely posed a threat. He was withdrawn in the second half in favor of Pedro, who provided the assist on Messi's second. 

Henry's decline is perhaps the biggest difference between Barcelona last season and this year. During Barcelona's treble winning campaign, Henry was in fantastic form, but this year he has gone missing in many games, including the Clasico against Real Madrid. The former Arsenal and Juventus player has only scored twice for his Barca this year. 

Last May, Henry was one of the central figures against Real Madrid, scoring two goals, but this time around he was taken off just five minutes into the second half.

Titi has clearly been distracted by the hand ball incident against the Republic of Ireland. FIFA are now said to be investigating him and there is a possibility, although not likely, that Henry could be suspended for part, if not all, of the World Cup. Few players have ever been ridiculed world wide in the way Henry has over the past few weeks and it is draining him emotionally. 

Barcelona's midfield has also failed to contribute the goals as they did last season. Xavi, who scored seven times last season, has managed just one so far and it came in the Copa del Rey against Cultural Leonesa with Barcelona already up 4-0. 

Xavi has been as consistent as ever as playmaker, and has never been a prolific scorer from midfield, but there is no doubt that Messi and Ibra are being asked to carry too much of the scoring mantle. 

Andres Iniesta has failed to score since his miracle strike in the dying seconds against Chelsea in the semifinals of last year's Champions League. 

Barcelona may be the best team at Spain, but they will have to improve significantly if they are to repeat last year's trophy hall.