Posted by Andy Booth on 01/15/12

Lionel Messi scored two goals, including a penalty, as Barcelona edged past a competitive Real Betis side by four goals to two.

The home side got off to a dream start on a day where Messi's Ballon d'Or prize was serenaded to the Nou Camp faithful. Xavi opened the scoring after just 10 minutes. Fabregas found himself through on goal and his effort cannoned back off the post directly into the path of the Catalan genius. Xavi made no mistake with the follow up, sending the ball high into the net.

The world's best player Messi did not take long to make his mark on the game. Alexis Sanchez delivered a fabulous cross on the 12th minute which was converted from close range by Messi.

Despite seeming in cruise control, Barcelona lost their grip as the match progressed. Real Betis came to the Nou Camp with the intention to play football and at times were able to match the home side with their quick and accurate passing. Their impressive build-up play was rewarded on the 32nd minute when Sevilla's cross was turned in by Ruben Castro.

Betis drew level just after half time on the 52nd minute through Roque Santa Cruz. The Paraguayan scored a rasping effort from 20 yards which left Valdes with no chance.

Barcelona upped the tempo, knowing they could ill afford to lose points to rivals Real Madrid, who were 8 points clear at the top of La Liga prior to the match. Betis were reduced to 10 men after Alvarez was dismissed for a second booking in the 71st minute. Barca took the lead four minutes later after Xavi expertly picked out the Chilean Sanchez. His first touch was impeccable and his shot was too hot to handle for goalkeeper Casto, creeping under his glove.

Barcelona made it four, perhaps unjustly for the visitors, on the 86th minute. Messi's initial shot had been blocked by Dorado but Abidal's subsequent cross was handled by the same player. The referee awarded a penalty, which was coolly converted by Messi for his 19th league goal of the season, two behind Cristiano Ronaldo in the race for the Pichichi.

Barcelona are now 5 points behind rivals Real Madrid in La Liga but the two sides will meet in mid-week for their Copa del Rey clash at the Bernabeu.

To watch highlights of the match, click here.

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