Player Ratings: Napoli holds Barcelona to a draw in Italy

Barcelona's encounter with Napoli in their first leg of the Champions League last 16 tie ended in a draw. Despite dominating much of the game, Barcelona was not extraordinary in their performance. They took a well-earned lead in the 60th minute with a goal from Robert Lewandowski. Victor Osimhen, returning to Napoli's lineup, scored an equalizer 15 minutes later, making the final score 1-1.

The tie is up for grabs when Barcelona hosts the second leg on March 12th. Napoli supporters may have anticipated some improvement following Walter Mazzarri's departure, but a sluggish start set a downbeat tone for their initial Champions League presentation.

Barcelona effectively countered Napoli's build-up, frequently gaining possession deep in their opponent's half. However, potential scoring opportunities were squandered despite the cunning of Ilkay Gundogan and Joao Cancelo's dynamism on the left wing.

Xavi's strategic use of Pedri as an additional central midfielder gave Barcelona complete control over the middle of the pitch, dominating Napoli's midfield trio. Despite this, their ascendency did not adequately test Napoli's goalkeeper Alex Meret. Napoli failed to impose any pressure on the visitors from Catalonia.

Barcelona's superiority eventually paid off when Lewandowski expertly scored inside Napoli's box. Osimhen equalized out of nowhere, making the otherwise comfortable away win for Barcelona an exciting contest.

After Osimhen's equalizer, Napoli had their best moments of the game, but chances were sparse at both ends. With the draw in Naples, everything is still at stake for the next match in Barcelona.

Xavi, Barcelona's manager, deserves an 8/10 for his selection of the most effective starting eleven. The team's performance was the most controlled in recent weeks, despite Martinez's disappointing display.