BARCELONA EDGE SPORTING

BARCELONA laboured to a second successive Champions League victory after Sebastian Coates’ own goal gave them an unconvincing 1-0 Group D win over Sporting yesterday. After a frustrating first half, Barcelona scored in fortunate circumstances when Coates bundled into his own net under pressure from Luis Suarez in the 49th minute.Lionel Messi made his 593rd Barcelona appearance – tying him third with Carles Puyol on the club’s all-time list – but the Argentine was unable to add to his brace against Juventus in their opening win. Despite the underwhelming performance, Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde said he was not concerned by the display after his side registered an eighth successive victory in all competitions. “Let people say whatever they want. I do not get bored if we win,” Valverde told reporters. Barcelona have been in freescoring mood this season, with 20 goals in six La Liga games, but were left frustrated by a host of missed opportunities in the opening half in Lisbon.The second half was only four minutes old when Coates converted beyond Patricio and, though Barcelona controlled possession thereafter, it was Sporting who created the best opportunities. Marc-Andre ter Stegen made a brilliant save to deny Bruno Fernandes during a strong period for Sporting in the 71st minute before substitute Paulinho wasted a late chance to double Barcelona’s advantage when he fired straight at Patricio.