Superstar Lionel Messi is on course for a record-breaking goal-scoring season following his sublime hat-trick in Barcelona’s 3-0 win over Valencia on Sunday. Argentine international Messi scored three brilliant goals to bamboozle third-placed Valencia and move him onto 22 goals for the season, three ahead of compatriot and Real Madrid forward Gonzalo Higuain at the top of the goalscoring charts.
Messi opened the scoring on 56 minutes dancing around three defenders with a mazy dribble at speed with cut-backs and body swerves before cooly finishing. It was the pick of the goals but the other two were also impressive with a solo run and a left-footed curler on 81 minutes before another dribble and deft right-footed chip clinched his hat-trick a minute later.
“He (Messi) is the best player in the world but not a natural goalscorer. However, this year he has scored a lot and I hope he can continue doing so,” team-mate Gerard Pique told the Barcelona official website. “Everyone knows he would like the Golden Boot. But is it is not something that he has to do. If in the end he manages that then great. Messi is very important as everyone knows and we know that when he is playing well it is much easier to score goals and to win games.”
Barca president Joan Laporta also paid tribute to Messi labelling him a down-to-earth genius. “It is recognition for a player that is a genius but remains humble and respectful,” said Laporta. He is talented and is a great role-model for all the children.”
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