Spanish giants Barcelona kept a firm grip on the summit of the UEFA Champions League group E as they eased past their hosts Stuttgart 2-0 while Lyon had another stunning 3-0 defeat by Rangers. Carles Puyol, back to the pitch for the first time since undergoing an operation on his knee last June, slotted the ball in the 53rd minute from close range. Unfortunately for him, he had to quit the game for an injury in the 65th minute. 14 minutes later Argentinean Lionnel Messi secured the victory when he swept the ball home from Thierry Henry's cut-back. Ronaldinho, back to action after missing the past four matches, deserved some support as he produced some of his magic helping his teammates reaching the goal line. Stuttgart, who dropped to the third place of the group, seemed very influent in the first half and went close from scoring twice forcing keeper Victor Valdes to produce some heroic saves. Elsewhere, Rangers increased Lyon's pains by humiliating them in France 3-0 courtesy to Lee McCulloch 23, Daniel Cousin 47 and DaMarcus Beasley 53 to join Barcelona on top of the group.
