While the opportunities are slipping away for
Lionel Messi, the possibilities feel endless for Bayern Munich. The only surprise was that Robert Lewandowski took until the 82nd minute for his customary goal. Otherwise the game played out as expected: Bayern Munich were far too cohesive to be denied a place in the
Champions League semi-finals by Barcelona, who look a team in dire need of renovation.
Five years have passed since Messi, whose head had dropped long before full-time, last won the Champions League. The end of an era is approaching for
Barcelona and the decline was epitomised by Messi losing possession before Philippe Coutinho made it 7-2 to Bayern.