Rayo Vallecano 1-2 Barcelona: 5 talking points as Blaugrana secure comeback victory | Copa del Rey 2020-21 

#3 Frenkie de Jong continues fine run of form for Barcelona

Frenkie de Jong scored the winning goal

Frenkie de Jong has been one of the standout players for Barcelona since the run of the year. He put up another convincing display at the Campo de fútbol de Vallecas.

The Netherlands international came into this game having scored three goals and provided two assists in his last five games in all competitions.

After a first half that saw him hit the bar and shoot narrowly wide, De Jong got on the scoresheet in the 80th minute, when he converted a routine cutback from Jordi Alba to put Barcelona 2-1 up.

The 23-year-old also had a hand in the opening goal, setting up Antoine Griezmann after the hosts had been caught on the break.

Overall, it was another comprehensive performance from Frenkie de Jong, and he continued his fine run of form in front of goal.

#2 Ronald Koeman makes a difference from the bench

Ronald Koeman made some inspired substitutions

Ronald Koeman's managerial career at Barcelona has been a bit haphazard to this point, with many accusing him of lacking a clear-cut philosophy.

As already mentioned, the former Everton manager named a very strong starting line-up, with Neto, Piqui Puig and Junior Firpo the only non-regulars.

However, his side went behind against the run of play, and Koeman swiftly swung into action in a bid to swing the tide.

His changes seemed to make an instant impact, as Barcelona went ahead less than two minutes later.

One of his introductions, Jordi Alba, also had a direct hand in a goal, setting Frenkie de Jong up for the match-winner.

The victory means that Barcelona will be present for the quarter-final draws on Friday, and Koeman can pat himself on the back for a bunch on inspired changes.

#1 Lionel Messi returns from suspension to make a difference on record-breaking appearance

Lionel Messi returned from suspension with a goal

Lionel Messi's red card in the final of the Supercopa de Espana saw him receive a two-match suspension.

This ruled him out of the La Liga clash with Elche as well as last week's Copa del Rey win away to Cornella.

He was, however, handed a start against Rayo Vallecano, marking his 76th appearance in the Copa del Rey to make him Barcelona's record appearance-maker in the competition.

The 33-year-old marked the occasion with a customary goal, converting from close range after he had been teed up by Antoine Griezmann.

He was also the architect for his side's second goal. It was his delightful pass that set Jordi Alba on his way down the left flank in a move that has become almost second nature.

The goal and assist took Lionel Messi to 21 goals involvements from 23 matches in all competitions for Barcelona, which signified his ultra-importance to the club's success.