Barcelona took another step closer to the La Liga title with a 4-1 win over Real Betis at the Benito Villamarin.
The man of the moment was Lionel Messi, who scored a hat-trick and left the onlookers debating on which goal was the best.
The Argentine stated that with Atletico Madrid dropping points on Saturday, Barcelona were eager to pounce on the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the La Liga table.
“After Atletico’s defeat, we couldn’t falter,” he explained in the mixed zone, according to Marca.
“It’s a very important victory today.
“Goals are important as they allow us to take three points, and we took advantage of a very good opportunity.”
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner admitted that Betis are a good team who can move the ball well, but his team was too organised to allow any mishaps.
“They’re a team that treat the ball very well,” he admitted.
“However, we didn’t suffer for a moment; we were very organised.
“Sometimes we have to adapt our style to suit the opposition, and in specific moments of matches we have to be prepared for anything.”
PELL DE GALLINA. L’afició del Benito Villamarín es rendeix a Messi! “Messi, Messi, Messi!!! pic.twitter.com/yGd77N0rJo
— LaTdT (@LaTdT) March 17, 2019
After completing his hat-trick with an audacious chip from the edge of the box, Messi was given a standing ovation by the Betis fans, accompanies by chants of “Messi …. Messi…”.
The Argentine icon was touched by this gesture.
“I’m very grateful,” he confirmed.
“It’s never happened to me before.
“They always treat us very well, regardless of whether we’re rivals.”
