Lionel Messi scored the 700th goal of his career, but Barcelona stuttered in the race for the title
But for Messi, it’s just the latest record to be set in an astonishing career that shows no signs of slowing down.
A cheeky finish was his 630th goal in 724 appearances for the Catalan club combined with 70 goals scored on the international stage.
These are the statistics that easily make him a record goal scorer for both the club and the country.
The 33-year-old has also joined a famous list of names like Pelé, Ferenc Puskas and Gerd Muller to reach 700 miles, a company that includes his longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
Barcelona jumped in again
Despite his significant achievement, Messi was not in the mood to celebrate.
His enthusiastic shot from the heel was not enough to win all three points for his side, which seems to be giving up defending the title.
The hosts twice rejected the lead, and Saul converted two penalties for third-placed Atletico.
Messi was involved in the Barcelona opener with his corner kick that blocked Diego Costa for an own goal.
However, the result leaves the Catalan one point behind Real Madrid who played one extra game.
“It’s a real shame and the league title seems a lot harder to us with every game,” Barcelona coach Quique Setien said after the game.
“Turning these points into reality pushes us beyond the title, but we still have to work hard.”
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