COMMENT: Luis Enrique's side lost 3-2 to Bayern on the night but were never under threat and have banished the memory of their thrashing at the same
Revenge for 2013. Barcelona completed their progression to the Champions League final by ruthlessly despatching Bayern Munich 5-3 on aggregate to not only solidify their status as currently the best team in the world, but dish out that which had been brutally received in their 7-0 humiliation against the Germans two years ago.
Pep Guardiola's side held the match to the blue touch paper for a fleeting spell, after Medhi Benatia's excellent header had threatened to turn this into a contest. But Neymar's double quickly put Bayern back in their place, which is - on the evidence of these two legs - a significant distance behind their conquerors. A 3-2 win on the night salvages some pride for Bayern, but little else.
This is peak Barca at the peak time of the season. Just six months ago the Luis Enrique project appeared dead before it had even been given a chance to flourish. Worrying performances against the likes of Getafe & Celta Vigo, as well as a comprehensive Clasico defeat, put the coach under the spotlight. A strained relationship with Lionel Messi, expensive summer signings Jeremy Mathieu and Thomas Vermaelen either criticised or perenially injured, then the rejection of the appear against their FIFA-imposed transfer ban. It was shaping up to be a year to forget.
Yet this Barca looks the most devastating since the 2011 side and credit must be given to Luis Enrique for stablising the situation. He blooded some of the B team earlier in the campaign and although the likes of Munir and Sandro have been used sparingly of late his rotation has helped to keep the team fresh to hit top form in the run-in. He also persevered with Ivan Rakitic's period of finding his feet and now we have a player that looks perfect for the side. He has rejuvenated Andres Iniesta and has carefully managed Xavi. He's earned their respect and deserves his success.stage just two years ago
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