Alexis Sanchez's double put Barcelona in control

Alexis Sanchez celebrates his goal

Alexis Sánchez's double and a seventh European goal of the season from Lionel Messi earned the title holders a comfortable win in the first leg match with Bayer Leverkusen in the quatar-final qualification knockout stage.

Barcelona dominated in the whole match with an average of 72% possession. Alexis Sánchez scored the opener after 41 minutes, his maiden goal in UEFA club competition. Sanchez calmly slot his shot between Bernd Leno's legs when he was provided the assist by Cesc Fàbregas after Messi was presented with opportunity from Stefan Reinartz's mis-kick.

Leverkusen rally sparked was by Michal Kadlec's 52nd-minute equalliser. Kadlec rose above Alves to head Vedran Ćorluka's cross beyond Victor Valdés. Sanchez had put Barca again in the lead just three minutes later when he rounded Leno before finishing from a tight angle.

Lionel Messi's seventh of the competition came late that left Barcelona in control going into the second leg on 7 March. Messi completely defeated their defence, darting between two defenders and chipping Leno.

Both sides had further chances to add to the scoreline, with substitute Stefan Kiessling heading straight at Valdés before Leno's sharp reflexes denied Sánchez a hat-trick.