Lionel Messi struck twice as Barcelona defeated Racing Santander 2-0 last night.

Andres Iniesta had hit the bar and Cesc Fabregas was denied by a fine save from Mario Fernandez before Messi did put the visitors in front as he slid in to meet Fabregas' cross on 29 minutes.

And the Argentinian doubled his and Barca's tally for the day when a penalty was given after Fabregas went down softly under Domingo Cisma's challenge and Messi sent Mario the wrong from the spot.