Barcelona and Valencia have ended the first half level at 1-1 in tonight's La Liga encounter at the Mestalla Stadium.

Both sides showed plenty of attacking intent during the opening stages, but some poor passing around the area saw the game remain goalless.

Adil Rami headed wide for the hosts early on before teammate Ricardo Costa did the same midway through the half.

Valencia made the breakthrough in the 33rd minute when Ever Banega smashed the ball into the bottom corner following Roberto Soldado's cross.

However, Barca got themselves level in the 40th minute through Lionel Messi's thumping penalty after Joao had brought down Pedro.