It was another magical night for the Argentine at the Camp Nou, as he led his side to victory in La Liga, keeping Barcelona’s unbeaten streak alive. Being in the final stretch of the season, Ernesto Valverde knew he had to make some rotations in this match, something he typically doesn’t like doing. But playing at home and against a less superior side, the Txingurri was presented with the perfect opportunity to give rest to some of his main players.
Despite the big guns like Andres Iniesta and Jordi Alba starting from the bench, Lionel Messi got the call-up and had an absolute masterclass of a performance.
Messi makes it simple
Converting free-kicks into goals have become Leo’s secret weapon and La Pulga netted another tonight, opening the scoresheet in the 27th minute. Messi has now scored six goals from the spot this season, matching Ronaldinho’s record set in the 2006/2007 campaign.
It only took five more minutes before the Argentine found the back of the net again. After a stunning pass from Philippe Coutinho, Leo drove the ball home and made it 2-0 for the Blaugrana.
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Despite Leganes pulling one back in the 68th minute, Messi produced yet another breathtaking goal, first controlling the ball with his chest before smashing it home.
Tonight’s match allowed fans at the Camp Nou to witness a superb Messi hattrick that leaves the 5’7” man with 29 goals, equaling Mohamed Salah’s number in the race for the Golden Boot.
Barcelona continue their dominance in La Liga and after tonight’s victory, they are only 12 points away from mathematically claiming the league title. With Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid playing each other on Sunday, Barca could be 12 points clear after this weekend.
Next: Messi leads Barca to victory again
In addition, Messi’s hattrick leads way for another record for the Catalan giants, as they have reached an incredible feat. This win matched Real Sociedad’s 1979/1980 campaign with a run of 38 games unbeaten in La Liga. Despite the close call against Sevilla and Leganes, the Blaugrana managed to keep this run going thanks to Messi on both occasions.