Confusion reigned at the Steven Gerrard Arena when play was called back for a mystery penalty out of nowhere early in the game, which Martial buried to give the hosts the lead, but the Dawgs retaliated immediately as Bellerin burst down the right and fired home in style. Conte’s centre-backs offered some genuine creativity here, with Van Dijk’s clever cross helping to set up Messi for a straightforward finish just after the break. This was the visitors’ most impressive performance of the season so far, with Gundogan pulling the strings in midfield, and the result was sealed when Messi nabbed a second amid poor defending. The Geese had their fair share of chances but never really imposed themselves.

By Rhombus Quayle