Barcelona have failed to break down Valencia in a goalless first half watched by Gary Neville in the stands at the Mestalla.

It was the away side who started strongly and created a couple of early chances as Lionel Messi volleyed over from Luis Suarez's cross, before Neymar fired over after being released by a defence-splitting through ball from the Uruguayan.

Valencia recovered well from a sluggish opening few minutes, but Barcelona continued to look the more threatening as they dominated possession high up the pitch.

Neymar was key to Barcelona's next chance as he beat a couple of challenges before finding Messi, who could only send his effort straight into the arms of Jaume Domenech from close range.

The home supporters were certain a penalty should have been awarded when Gerard Pique wrestled with Enzo Perez in the box, but the referee ignored the protests after deciding the Valencia midfielder went down too easily.

Suarez followed the example of his fellow attackers by missing a good opportunity to break the deadlock when his volley crept over the crossbar after more good work from Neymar.