Lionel Messi the 'best of all time' after clasico heroics claims Luis Suarez

Messi struck twice, including the 500th goal of his Barca career, to give Luis Enrique's side a last-gasp 3-2 win over 10-man Real

Monday 24 April 2017 10:39 BST
Comments
Lionel Messi put in a match-winning display to beat Real Madrid
Lionel Messi put in a match-winning display to beat Real Madrid

Luis Suarez hailed Lionel Messi as the "best of all time" after the Argentine inspired Barcelona to a last-gasp win over rivals Real Madrid to blow the La Liga title race wide open.

Messi struck twice, including the 500th goal of his Barca career, to give Luis Enrique's side a dramatic 3-2 win over the 10-man hosts to take Luis Enrique's side top of the table.

And former Liverpool forward Suarez led the tributes to his two-goal teammate.

"It's time to enjoy beating a direct opponent, Madrid. It's time to enjoy the best player in the world and of all time," he said.

"He keeps showing that in the most important games, which is when you really see him. It's admirable. Our destiny still isn't in our hands, but they're under pressure to win every game, because we aim to do the same."

Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta echoed those sentiments adding: "The great thing about Leo is that he never stops surprising you. After so many years he continues to be the difference. For us it is an honour and a blessing for the club.

"It was a match with a bit of everything, stages where we were in control, others where we were in too much of a hurry to attack. These games are difficult here and there were chances for both teams, but in the end we got the winner in added time to leave very happy, it couldn't be any other way.

"We have achieved our objective, we have a chance and we have to take it.

"These matches are brilliant for the fans, chances for both teams. We are very happy because it was not easy after being knocked out [of the Champions League] the other day. It wasn't easy to be back for this kind of fixture, but we did it."

Messi enjoyed a fine game at the Bernabeu (Getty)

Defender Gerard Pique felt that Barcelona were worth the victory that sees them top the league on goal difference from Real, although Los Blancos have a game in hand.

Pique said: "I believe the result was deserved, because winning at the Bernabeu is very difficult. Even though you might play well, you might not end up winning. I have fantastic memories at this ground.

"Tonight we were the better team. We witnessed a great spectacle, where we were superior and we have gone top (of LaLiga).

"Leo's 500th goal had to be a special moment, as is he. I hope he retires in many years."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in