Both sides rotated for this one but the reigning champions knew better than to drop Aguero, who buried a classic Aguero strike shortly before half-time. Lambert, who kept faith in yeoman winger Neymar whose defensive instincts saw him earn a suspension, switched to 3-4-3 once again as his team struggled to create chances in response. Remarkably, this included putting Dani Alves up front and it paid off with a thumping strike in the 88th minute, finishing off Zapata’s pass when both centre-backs left the Brazilian in acres of space around the penalty spot. The hosts were the less impressive side here but held on for a draw.

By Sven Nevis