Lionel Messi was so, so, good against Real Betis that their fans gave him a standing ovation.
Barcelona maintained their blistering start to the La Liga campaign with a thumping away win at Betis. The league leaders thrashed the hosts 5-0 which included a masterclass from the Argentine maestro.
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Though, surprisingly, the game was goalless heading into the break.
But before the hour mark, Ivan Rakitic gave the visitors the lead with a calmly taken finish. Messi then doubled his sides lead with an equally tidy goal.
He later turned provided, helping in the build-up to Luis Suarez's goal. Next, Messi netted a beautiful solo goal who then assisted his Uruguayan teammate, recording an easy three points.
Watch the highlights from Sunday's league fixture which earned the man himself a standing ovation from the entire crowd:
Messi's outing got everybody talking.
Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde described him as the best ever while lauding his captain on the night.
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"You have to enjoy him. We have been able to live his era. I have suffered because of him and I know what that is like. Now I can enjoy it," he said.
"It is an event to watch him every day. He is the best player there is and there ever will be.
Suarez also weighed in on 30-year-old phenom: "The people who came to the stadium could enjoy it, they had the chance to see the best player in history.
"He plays each game with such detail. He's spectacular," he added.
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Meanwhile, with 20 league games on the board, Messi and Co. are 11 points ahead of nearest rivals, Atletico Madrid. While a further 19 clear of defending champions, Real Madrid.
Though Valverde has insisted there's still 18 games to play.
"For us, it is not a boring league. We will continue going to win the matches, without speculating. There are 18 games left and it's a lot. But every game we win will be a very big step."
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Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football News, Football, Barcelona, Lionel Messi
