The Barcelona vs Elche match was quite interesting, with the match first being interrupted by a pitch invader--a black cat--in the opening moments.
Then, Lionel Messi did what he does best to finally break the deadlock, which puts him within touching distance of becoming La Liga's all time top-scorer... something that he's certain to reach before the end of this season.
However, the Blaugrana's joy was short-lived during the first 45 after Javier Mascherano was sent packing following a straight red card.
But was the official's decision correct?
Video of the incident (VINE):
Not the best way to start his new season...
Mascherano is the first Barcelona player to be sent off in first Liga match of season since Nadal in 1998 #fcblive [via @infostradalive]
— barcastuff (@barcastuff) August 24, 2014
Another video of what sent him down to the changing rooms for an early bath:
And, of course, more Twitter reactions:
Mascherano actually did the right thing. If Elche score there they go in level, and play 10 at the back for the second half of the match.
— Neymarred (@Neymarred) August 24, 2014
Mascherano: Sent off for not touching a player Cristina and Ramos punch players: Yellow card http://t.co/zrU5sp9GB4
— BarçaSnacks (@BarcaSnacks) August 24, 2014
Bartra is more disciplined than Mascherano. No one can argue that.I can't even remember the last time he got a yellow card.
— FC Barcelona (@CampNouAddict) August 24, 2014
Javier Mascherano has received his first red card in the Liga since October 2012 (then vs Deportivo) #fcblive [via @whoscored]
— barcastuff (@barcastuff) August 24, 2014
Looks like Mascherano didn't actually make contact with the player. Meanwhile, Penaldo and Sergio Horsemos get a yellow despite punching.
— Luis Enrique (@LuchoStuff) August 24, 2014 
