This archive report was first published on 22 December 2019.
Barcelona vs Alaves: Messi Inspires Blaugrana to 4-1 Win ¶
Barcelona secured a convincing 4-1 win over Deportivo Alaves in their final La Liga match of 2019, with Lionel Messi playing a key role in the victory.
On December 22, 2019, Barcelona cruised to a 4-1 victory over Deportivo Alaves in their last La Liga match of 2019, with Lionel Messi scoring a goal and providing an assist.
The win came on the back of two draws against Real Sociedad and Real Madrid in the previous seven days.
Barcelona's victory was sparked by a goal from Antoine Griezmann in the first half, who connected with Luis Suarez's cross from the right flank to send the ball into the bottom right corner of the post.
Arturo Vidal doubled Barcelona's lead in the 45th minute, with Suarez credited with the assist as the Chilean forward fired home from close range.
Alaves reduced their deficit in the 61st minute with a stunning header from Pere Pons, but Barcelona restored their two-goal lead in the 69th minute through a superb long-range shot from Messi.
Once again, Suarez provided the assist for Barcelona's third goal after connecting well with Messi after a mix-up moments before the goal was scored.
The Uruguayan forward then recorded his name on the scores sheet in the 75th minute through a VAR-assisted penalty.
Barcelona's win means they will retain their top spot in the La Liga table heading into the new year, unless rivals Real Madrid win their game against Athletic Bilbao with a wide goal margin.
Barcelona will return to action on January 4, 2020, when they battle Espanyol in the second stanza of the season.
