Messi's exhibition in the derby

A new exhibition from Leo Messi. The Argentinian once again gave a stellar performance at the RCDE Stadium, scoring with two sensational direct free-kicks, giving a great assist to Dembélé for the second Barça goal and showcasing his immense passing repertoire.

Messi’s quality is undeniable and his master classes follow each other. With both goals against Espanyol, the captain now has 11 in the League and equals Stuani as the top scorer in the championship. In total, he has 17 goals in all competitions, including six in the Champions League.

The game on Saturday saw Messi reach the figure of 32 derbies against Espanyol, equalling Xavi Hernandez. The Argentine has scored 23 goals and provided 11 assists against them, winning 22 games, drawing eight and losing only two.

First direct free-kick double since Ronaldinho

It should also be noted that Messi scored two direct free-kick goals in the same match for the second time in his career - he did it in the final of the European Super Cup against Sevilla in 2015 - but it was the first time in the League. In fact, since Ronaldinho managed it against Betis in the 2007-08 season, no one else had achieved it.