Lionel Messi crowned his triumph in winning the Ballon d'Or this week by hitting a stunning hat-trick as FC Barcelona took a huge stride towards a place in the Copa del Rey semi finals with victory over Real Betis. The Argentinian paraded the award that he received on Monday in Zurich in front of the fans before the game in Camp Nou and then proved why he was voted as the best on the planet with a dazzling display against the second division leaders. Pedro and Seydou Keita added to the tally late on to ensure that the second leg will be extremely tough for Betis while Messi left the field to a standing ovation from the home fans. Bright start Pep Guardiola showed that he is paying full attention to the Copa del Rey as he named all six players that were included in the FIFPro Ideal XI in his starting line-up. There was an emotional start to the evening as the players paid homage to former Barça star Ángel Pedraza, who died recently aged just 48. The tribute the team then paid him was superb as Barça dominated the game and put the tie virtually beyond doubt. Betis did not make things easy though and they had several attempts at goal themselves and showed why they are favourites to win their place in the top flight back at the end of the current campaign. More Messi Just after the hour mark and Barça were two ahead and it was Messi again who hit the target. Casto stopped his first effort from close range, but the forward regained possession and slotted the ball through the keeper's legs and into the far corner of the net. The hat-trick was complete in minute 73 when Messi was sent through down the middle by Xavi and clipped the ball past Casto after waiting for the Betis player to commit himself to a dive. SOURCE: www.fcbarcelona.cat
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