Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick and Barcelona barely broke a sweat as they put five past Rayo Vallecano in a 5-1 win in Madrid.
As is often the case against Paco Jemez's ambitious team, the Argentinean enjoyed himself, and he wasted little time in punishing the home side when they were reduced to 10, and then nine men. He also worked hard to create opportunities for both Neymar and Luis Suarez, though neither could ultimately capitalise.
The central striker's movement and touch were excellent but his shooting was wayward, while the Brazilian also came close to scoring but ultimately couldn't get a shot inside the bar.