El Classico: Barcelona Fans Hail Ivorian Midfielder Franck Kessie After Beating Real Madrid

• Franck Kessie put up his best performance for Barcelona in the game against Real Madrid
• Kessie's deflected strike earned Barcelona a first leg Copa del Rey semi-final win
• Barcelona will host their rivals in the second leg in April

Barcelona fans have taken to social media to sing praises of midfielder Franck Kessie after his outstanding display in the 1-0 victory over Real Madrid.

The former AC Milan star's goal-bound strike was turned in by Real Madrid's Eder Milatao as the Catalans secured a first leg semi-final win in the Copa Del Rey.

Kessie has struggled for game time under manager Xavi Hernandez, but took his opportunity when the moment arrived.

Sergi Roberto replaced the 2015 AFCON winner with four minutes remaining as Barcelona returned home with the advantage.

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How fans reacted on social media

@ilaah0 wrote:

Franck Kessie is silencing his critics. He was the second best passer, after Koundé. The message is clear: don't expect him to be an exceptional player, but never question his commitment & effort.

@petermurano added:

The man of the moment Franck Kessie reaping the fruit of his labour for being patient and has now gotten his time.

@TheRespectTimes posted:

Franck Kessié deserves a lot of credit for his sacrifices and commitments. Has not complained for the minutes he has received this season. He worked hard and earned them. It shows in his performance tonight. Of course has lots of room for improvements. On the right track!

@FCBRonit tweeted:

Franck Kessie, what a player!

@AMZ8FCB added:

Today Franck Kessie was Barcelona underrated MOTM. No one is giving him credits, despite helping in getting one goal and almost got the second goal if it wasn’t for Fati. Put some respect on his name

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Kessie wants to replicate Toure's achievement

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Ivorian midfielder Franck Kessie wants to continue the legacy of countryman Yaya Toure after completing his move to Barcelona.

The midfielder was officially unveiled by Barcelona's President Joan Laporta. Kessie quipped that he would like to follow in the footsteps of Yaya Toure, a Barcelona legend. Toure also comes from Ivory Coast, the same country that Kessie represents internationally.

Football Espana reports that Kessie mentioned outrightly that he adored Toure, who has since retired.