Barcelona saved a draw against Napoli in the Europa League last-32 first-leg clash at the Nou Camp thanks to a penalty from Ferran Torres.

Barcelona saved a draw against Napoli in the Europa League last-32 first-leg clash at the Nou Camp thanks to a penalty from Ferran Torres.

The Spanish giants, who were making their first participation in this competition in nearly 18 years, went behind in the first half when Piotr Zielinski drove in.

However, VAR gave Barcelona a penalty in the second half after Adama Traore's cross struck Juan Jesus' hand. Torres took a stride forward to send Alex Meret the wrong way. The goal will have come as a huge relief to the former Manchester City striker, who had previously squandered a golden chance while the game was still goalless, blasting over from within the box.

Late in the game, he had a wonderful chance to win the game for Barcelona, but his shot went over the bar once more.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, an ex-Arsenal striker, had a quiet game in his first start for Barcelona and his first competitive start since December 2nd.

Despite their late pressure, Xavi's team, who are in the Europa League after failing to advance from their Champions League group, were the superior side following Torres' 59th-minute equalizer.

On Thursday, February 24, the two teams will meet in Italy for the second leg.