Barcelona and Levante have both failed to break the deadlock in the opening half of tonight's La Liga encounter at the Estadi Ciutat de Valencia.

The home side started strongly and they came close to taking the lead on 13 minutes when Jose Barkero's effort was tipped over by Victor Valdes.

However, Barca soon took control of the contest and they went close midway through the half as Lionel Messi's shot flashed narrowly wide.

The visitors threatened again before the end of the half, but Xavi Hernandez's volley was hit straight at Gustavo Munua.