Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic hailed matchwinner Lionel Messi after victory at Real Madrid.

A last-second winner from the Argentinian, something that has been Real Madrid's speciality this season, condemned the hosts to defeat in a pulsating El Clasico.

"Messi cannot surprise anyone," Rakitic said to reporters after the game.

"You can put him anywhere and he can hurt teams.

"We are very happy for the victory and for him, because we need him."

The advantage is still with Los Blancos as they have a game in hand, something the Croatian acknowledged.

"La Liga is very open," he said.

"There are enough matches left and all teams are playing for something."