Messi takes centre-stage once more as super-sub for Barcelona

 

Monday 06 May 2013 02:30 BST
Comments
Messi celebrates scoring the second of his two goals
Messi celebrates scoring the second of his two goals (Getty)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Lionel Messi took just three minutes after coming on as a substitute to make an impact for Barcelona, scoring a free kick before finishing from close range in the 4-2 La Liga victory over Real Betis at the Nou Camp.

The victory takes them to just one win away from the title, but they had to work hard for the result after twice going behind.

Pabon and Ruben Perez had put Betis ahead, with Alexis Sanchez and then David Villa replying.

The latter was replaced immediately by Messi after netting the equaliser and it proved to be a smart move by Tito Vilanova as the Argentinian made an instant impact.

First he curled a free-kick into the top corner before finishing a wonderful team goal with a tap in from close range to seal the points.

Mallorca remain bottom of the league after only managing a 1-1 draw with Levante at home.

Tomer Hemed gave the Islanders a dream start by scoring inside seven minutes, but Robert Acquafresca equalised just before half-time.

Despite dominating possession and having 17 attempts on goal, Mallorca were unable to get a winner, which could have a huge impact on their chances of avoiding relegation.

Real Zaragoza recorded back-to-back league wins for the first time this season as Rayo Vallecano succumbed meekly at La Romareda.

An Apono penalty got Zaragoza on their way in the 26th minute before Rodri doubled their advantage after 51 minutes.

Apono struck his second in injury time as Zaragoza moved out of the bottom three.

Seville kept their dreams of Europa League football alive for next season with a convincing 3-0 win over Espanyol.

Joan Capdevila's own goal gave the home side an early lead with Andujar Coke and Alvaro Negredo scoring the second and third in the space of four minutes as Seville moved three points off Betis, who occupy the final European spot.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in