FCBARCELONA.CAT

06.01.2009 22:42

Second hat-trick and ovation for Messi

Roger Bogunyà

Leo Messi scored his second hat trick of his career tonight against Atlético Madrid. It was a genuine exhibition that was offered a standing ovation from the Vicente Calderón crowd.

In the first half they were calling out for impossible plays, and when he was substituted, the Atlético Madrid fans hailed Leo Messi’s football and gave him a standing ovation. Three goals were enough to deserve that, the second hat-trick in Leo Messi’s career.

First against Real Madrid

The first came two years ago on March 10, 2007, in the Barça v Madrid match at the Camp Nou. He converted three excellent goals that night, the last one in the final minute of the game to seal a valuable draw (3-3).

Bond with Alves

At the Vicente Calderón it was very different story. In the first half the Argentinian teamed up with Alves to drive the home defence wild. The duo combined for the first goal following a clever one-two down the right wing. The Argentinian finished off the move with a cold-blooded strike when faced by Coupet in the 12th minute. Messi and Alves were also the reasons why yellow cards were shown to Sinama, Simao and Pernía, all in the first half.

Second half exhibition

In the second half the same two players went to work on making it 2-0. Alves crossed to Messi, who was about to strike it home before he was brought down by Heitinga, who sent off for his efforts. Messi took the ball, placed it on the spot and fooled Coupet to claim his second (min 57).

Just ten minutes later, Leo Messi almost scored a dream goal, not unlike his famous one against Getafe, but the final shot struck the bar. However, the move continued and once the Argentinian regained possession he made sure that he wouldn’t make the same mistake twice, and this time left Coupet floundering following a tricky dribble to make it 1-3.

In the 81st minute, Messi was taken off and replaced by Pedro but not before he had received an ovation from the stunned Vicente Calderón. Messi showed what a gentlemen he is, and accepted the applause with a warm gesture of thanks.