Video: The last time City and Barca met

Two of the footballing superpowers in European football face off at the Etihad Stadium tonight, in a mouthwatering Champions League last-16 first leg tie. Manchester City, without in-form Argentine Sergio Aguero through injury, come up against Barcelona who – whilst they may not be the steamroller they once were – are an exceptionally strong team, with the likes of four-time Ballon D’or winner Lionel Messi in their ranks.

This will be the first time the Citizens and the Blaugrana have met in a competitive match, however they have played six friendly matches in the past. In 2003, goals from journeyman Nicolas Anelka and Trevor Sinclair gave City a 2-1 win.

The most recent encounter between the sides was at the Camp Nou five years ago, in the Joan Gamper trophy, a pre-season tournament put on by the Catalan outfit. Keen eyes will notice the participation of Ivorian midfielder Yaya Touré, who of course is now enjoying a good spell with Manchester City and is sure to be taking part in tonight’s showdown. Here are the highlights of that match:

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5TLB4aLw10&w=560&h=315]