Messi back on song

Lionel Messi claimed a share of two more of the few Spanish soccer records he does not already own with another stunning performance on Sunday that underlined Barcelona's credentials as possible treble winners.

The Argentina captain, already the all-time La Liga top scorer, netted his 23rd hattrick in Spain's top flight in a 5-0 demolition of Levante at the Nou Camp, matching the record set by his great rival Cristiano Ronaldo earlier this season.

Messi has 31 trebles in all competitions for Barca, tying the most scored for a Spanish club set by former Athletic Bilbao forward Telmo Zarra, while Ronaldo has 27 overall for Real.

Messi's assist for Neymar on Sunday was his 106th in his 300th La Liga appearance, overhauling former Barca and Real midfielder Luis Figo who held the previous best of 105 since records began in 1990.

"What can I say about him?" Barcelona forward Pedro told reporters after Messi's latest masterclass.

"It is a privilege to have him as a team mate and share a dressing room with him," added the Spain international.

"He is a unique and different player and is always surpassing himself. He has ambition to remain the best."

Lionel Messi claimed a share of two more of the few Spanish soccer records he does not already own with another stunning performance on Sunday that underlined Barcelona's credentials as possible treble winners.

The Argentina captain, already the all-time La Liga top scorer, netted his 23rd hattrick in Spain's top flight in a 5-0 demolition of Levante at the Nou Camp, matching the record set by his great rival Cristiano Ronaldo earlier this season.

Messi has 31 trebles in all competitions for Barca, tying the most scored for a Spanish club set by former Athletic Bilbao forward Telmo Zarra, while Ronaldo has 27 overall for Real.

Messi's assist for Neymar on Sunday was his 106th in his 300th La Liga appearance, overhauling former Barca and Real midfielder Luis Figo who held the previous best of 105 since records began in 1990.

"What can I say about him?" Barcelona forward Pedro told reporters after Messi's latest masterclass.

"It is a privilege to have him as a team mate and share a dressing room with him," added the Spain international.

"He is a unique and different player and is always surpassing himself. He has ambition to remain the best."