Lionel Messi pulls away from Benzema in LaLiga goalscoring charts
Leo has six more goals than the Real Madrid striker, who will face Betis this afternoon
Lionel Messi was once again the difference maker as Real Sociedad made life difficult for the LaLiga leaders at the Camp Nou. It wasn't a moment of genius from Leo this time, but rather his ice-cold blood to put away a late penalty and ensure all three points went to Barça.
VAR awarded a spot kick to the home side after Robin Le Normand was judged to have handled the ball. The only person on the pitch who saw this in real time was Gerard Pique. After a lengthy check, VAR gave the penalty.
Messi stepped up and beat Alex Remiro from 12 yards, taking his total to 19 goals in LaLiga this season. After missing the opening six matches, it means Leo has 19 goals in 21 matches.
This extended Messi's lead over second-placed Karim Benzema to six. Luis Suarez, who might not play again until the final few weeks of the season, remains in third place.
With 11 matches to go, 12 for Real Madrid, it appears difficult to see anybody but Leo claiming his 7th Pichichi trophy. This would see him move ahead of Telmo Zarra and be the outright record holder. They are currently tied on six.
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