Sport

Barca beat Valencia

15:09 pm on 20 February 2012

World player of the year Lionel Messi scored four as Barcelona came from behind to thrash Valencia 5-1 at home, to close the gap on La Liga leaders Real Madrid back to 10 points.

Jose Mourinho's side thumped Racing Santander 4-nil yesterday to put pressure on the champions, who conceded to Pablo Piatti after only nine minutes at the Nou Camp.

Messi led the fightback with two goals in five minutes to put them ahead by the 27th minute as Pep Guardiola's side responded with some exhilarating football.