Barcelona coach, Ronald Koeman did not hesitate to bring on Lionel Messi at half time, after Ansu Fati picked up a knee problem in the game against 10-man Real Betis on Saturday.
The Dutchman had opted to keep his talisman on the bench following the midweek Champions League victory over Dynamo Kyiv.
Ousmanne Dembele put the host in front after 22 minutes before Antoine Griezmann’s penalty was saved.
However, Antonio Sanabria leveled things up in first-half stoppage time.
Speaking after the match, Koeman revealed the reason behind his decision to drop Messi for such an important game.
He said, “We know who he is and I have no doubts about him. I see him working every day.
“He was not fit enough to start today, but of course his presence in the second half was really important.”
Koeman who felt his side deserved victory added, “It is an important victory – we needed the three points after the last results. In general the team was good and the victory is deserved.”
Barcelona moved up to eighth, one point behind Betis.
Meanwhile, Los Verdiblancos boss, Manuel Pellegrini had little complaints about the red card which was given after referee Guillermo Cuadra opted to review the incident through the VAR.
“If the referee gives the penalty and sends off Mandi, I have nothing to say, but if the VAR does, then I have to complain,” he said.
