Lionel Messi struck a brilliant second half hat-trick to give
Barcelona victory over Valencia at the Nou Camp and ensure Pep Guardiola's
side finish the night at least level on points with Real Madrid
at the top of the table.
Following an evenly-disputed first period in which Valencia gave
as good as they got, Messi took centre stage with a spectacular
treble.
The winger beat three Valencia players to give Barca the lead after
56 minutes, before adding two more fine efforts in the closing stages
- both set up by substitute Thierry Henry - after the visitors had
been reduced to 10 men following the sending-off of Hedwiges Maduro.
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