Spanish Champions Barcelona overcame 10-man Real Madrid with a commanding 2-0 win at the Barnabeu courtesy of two late strikes from Lionel Messi.
Jose Mourinho was also Red carded
The talking point of the game will however be the controversial sending off of defender Pepe for a challenge on Barcelona defender Dani Alaves.
But replays showed the German referee Wolfgang Stark had erred in his decision which Real Madrid will blame for the loss of a game they seemed to be in control of. Real Madrid Coach Jose Mourinho was also red carded for protesting Pepe’s send off.
The first half had ended goalless and the second half at 65 minutes saw Real Madrid pressing Barcelona who had enjoyed massive possession.
But the bad decision will not take the glee from Barcelona forward Lionel Messi who scored the two crucial goals which gave Barca two crucial away gaols as the teams prepare to meet again next Tuesday in the 2nd leg to determine who qualifies for the finals.
After breaking the deadlock in the 73rd minute by tapping in from close range, Messi was more delighting in his second goal that showed why he is the World Footballer of the year. The Argentine picked the ball up 35 yards out, dodged three Real Madrid defenders before chipping with his right foot passed Real Madrid keeper Iker Casillas.
Real Madrid must now score more than two goals at the Nou Camp on Tuesday to stand any chances of qualifying for the finals of the Champions League at Wembley.