He has matured to be able to drop deep and control tempo.
We all love the Messi that looked to get ball and run at opponents every time but this Messi is even better and he is selfless enough to do job for team at expense of goal chances.
I thought he had a ok game, his touch at times was off and his passing too. But I have very very very high standards for Messi as we all do cause he the GOAT. I think maybe he had too many players marking him for him to do anything special.
He was content with the midfield job he was doing. Knew it will be easy after the 2 goals. Doesnt need to overdo himself more important matches are ahead.
People should calm a little bit..An assist and almosta goal is pretty great.It is true that he doesn't score in big matches as often as he used to,but he is more a creator now