The Argentine proved his genius - and resilience - by leading the Blaugrana to a sensational victory in Madrid that has blown the title race wide open
Marcello Lippi was asked earlier this week if Lionel Messi was in decline. "Every time I see Barcelona's results," the legendary Italian coach responded, "I see goals and assists from Messi.
"I don't think he has declined; it's the rest of Barcelona that has declined. The drop-off is more in terms of the defence and that affects the whole team."
Sunday's Clasico showdown at the Santiago Bernabeu proved Lippi right on both counts: Messi was as brilliant as Barca's defence was brittle.