MADRID — Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino said Lionel Messi had answered his critics in the best way possible as the Argentine scored his first two goals from open play in 10 league games as Barca won 4-1 at Sevilla Sunday. Sevilla had gone ahead early on under the torrential rain at the Sanchez Pizjuan, but Messi led his side's revival as he first crossed for Alexis Sanchez to bundle home the equalizer before finishing off a fine counter-attack with a stunning half-volley just before half-time. The four-time World Player of the Year doubled his tally for the evening with another sweet finish from Andres Iniesta's pass 11 minutes after the break and Cesc Fabregas rounded off the scoring three minutes from time. Barcelona is now level with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid at the top of the standings after 23 rounds. Messi had been questioned for his poor goalscoring form since returning from a hamstring injury at the start of the year, but Martino insisted it was only a matter of time before he returned to form in front of goal. “I always say the same with respect to Leo. I never run the risk of going over the top with him. “Those that do say something negative about him sometimes don't realize what they are doing is affecting his pride and, when you do that to the best player in the world, this is what happens.” Victory moved Barca back to the top of La Liga on goal difference over Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid with all three sides tied on 57 points. The game was also notable for Iniesta's return to form. The Spanish international hadn't played 90 minutes since the 4-0 win over Elche on Jan. 5, but was undoubtedly his side's best performer in midfield as they recovered control after a difficult opening. Elsewhere, Osasuna beat Getafe 2-0 at home to move four points clear of the relegation zone. Real Sociedad was held 0-0 at its Anoeta Stadium by Levante and the inspired form of goalkeeper Keylor Navas, while substitute Humberto Osorio scored twice as Valladolid came from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Elche. Sevilla's players must have wondered how they went into halftime losing 2-1 after bossing the first half on a wet pitch that slowed the ball but not the frenetic pace. Unai Emery's side only allowed Barcelona to create two clear scoring chances, and both ended in goals, while the host provoked havoc in Barcelona's box throughout. “It hurts of course because we had done a good job,” Sevilla midfielder Ivan Rakitic said. “But when you play against the best they punish you for any mistakes you make.” Rakitic helped to open the scoring by steering a team buildup more similar to Barcelona's passing prowess than Sevilla's counterattacking style. He combined with two players inside Barcelona's area before the ball reached Moreno for a shot that flew off Marc Bartra and into the net. Sevilla pressed its advantage and every corner and free kick inspired panic in Barcelona's defense. Carlos Bacca headed Rakitic's free kick off the upright in the 20th, and Bacca set up Rakitic in the 29th only to see him stroke the ball wide. — Agencies
