Messi ties Xavi’s record as Barcelona cuts Atlético's lead

Lionel Messi scored twice as he tied Xavi Hernández’s record of most appearances for Barcelona, putting them within four points of the Spanish league lead after beating last-placed Huesca 4-1.

For his 767th match, Messi was honoured by Barcelona with a large image behind one of the goals showing him embracing Xavi as the players looked forward and pointed upward. The banner included the words “767 matches” and “touching the sky.” “It’s incredible,” Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman said. “His impact on this team is enormous. It’s amazing what he has done for this club up until now.”