Sports: Lionel Messi eyes more history

Fresh from becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in La Liga, Lionel Messi will have his sights on more history as he looks to repeat that feat in the Champions League when Barcelona visit APOEL Nicosia on Tuesday, AFP reports...




Messi’s double in the Catalans’ 2-0 win at Ajax three weeks ago took him level with Real Madrid legend Raul’s record tally of 71 goals in the competition and ensured Barca’s progress to the last 16 for an 11th consecutive season.

However, Luis Enrique’s men still need at least a point in Cyprus to ensure they can win Group F with victory over PSG at home in their final group match early next month.

Messi’s latest record feat overshadowed arguably Barca’s best performance of the season so far in crushing Europa League holders Sevilla 5-1 at the weekend, with the Argentine scoring his 27th hat-trick for the club along with goals from Neymar and Ivan Rakitic.

Luis Suarez’s attempts to break his Barcelona duck were frustrated once more but Enrique has no concerns over the Urguayan’s ability to find the back of the net as he again proved his worth with a fourth assist in as many games.

“It will come. To have a goalscorer of that quality and generosity is marvellous,” said Enrique.

“They are all playing for each other. No one doubts that Suarez will score many goals for Barcelona.”