Four questions and answers after Barça progressed to the Copa del Rey semi-finals following victory over Athletic Bilbao in a tie in which they didn't have things all their own way.
Where are Barcelona going wrong in the first half of games?
It's hard to understand the way that they've been starting matches recently. Athletic pressed high and forced their opponents to play long ball, with a midfield that was barely present. Ivan Rakitic, Javier Mascherano and Sergi Roberto didn't manage to take the game by the scruff of the neck at any point in the first half.
Were the home fans right to whistle their team?
Thomas Vermaelen and Jérémy Mathieu made a lot of mistakes. The Frenchman was clearly to blame for Athletic's opener and the fans were hardly comforted by some of his backward passes. Basically, the supporters weren't happy because their team was failing to show any backbone. When the 'Azulgranas' did actually start to play then the crowd also came to life.
Should Mascherano play in central midfield?
The Argentine struggles in that position in a 4-3-3 formation, much preferring a system with two holding midfielders. On Wednesday night he was also faced with the problem of Aritz Aduriz floating around in that area, where he was absolutely dominant. Mascherano didn't show up for the first half, but it was a different story later when he was playing in central defence and the home fans even started chanting his name.
Does Neymar make the difference for this Barcelona side?
Well, he's definitely the player in best form. He's graced with devilish pace and acceleration that can knock the opposition off their stride. He's also a real danger in one-on-one situations and has a keen eye for goal. Right now he's Barcelona's best player. The only possible criticism of him is his theatrical side.
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