Lionel Messi-led Barcelona inching closer towards La Liga title
What's the story
Barcelona have opened a significant gap at the top of La Liga table. It's been a fine season under the leadership of Lionel Messi, who is continuing to produce the goods. Ahead of the Champions League first-leg quarters clash against Manchester United, the Spanish league leaders beat 10-man Atletico Madrid 2-0. Luis Suarez and Messi left it late. Here's more.
Suarez, Messi
Suarez, Messi come together to breach Atletico defense
Barca are now 11 points above Atletico, who produced a fine defending display after Diego Costa was sent off in the first half. Barcelona finally opened the Atletico gate minutes ahead of injury time. Notably, they scored twice in space of 60 seconds. Suarez saw his low shot from 25 yards beat Jan Oblak. Messi cut inside two defenders to fire in the second.
Dominance
Messi has once again conquered La Liga
Messi has been on top gear this season and he netted his 33rd league goal. The Argentine superstar has amassed 43 goals across all competitions as well. He is line to pocket the European Golden Shoe this season for his exploits in La Liga. Messi is also on the verge of winning the Pichichi. He won the prize last season as well.
Twitter Post
Legend Messi on top of the world!
🐐#Messi
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 7, 2019
🔝 scorer in Europe
🏆MVP for March
👊Most ever @LaLigaEN wins (3️⃣3️⃣5️⃣) pic.twitter.com/oFKsaIHe9v
Real Madrid
Benzema brace helps Real clinch victory
Real Madrid kept their hopes alive of finishing second in La Liga this season. Los Blancos are just two points behind Atletico. Frenchman Karim Benzema struck twice to seal a comeback victory against Eibar. He smashed two headers after receiving crosses from Marco Asensio and Toni Kroos respectively. Benzema now has 26 goals across all competitions this season.
Twitter Post
Barca on brink of lifting La Liga title
💥 BOOOOOOM! 💥
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 6, 2019
FORÇA BARÇA! 🔵🔴 pic.twitter.com/r8M8g1LQL2