Messi Expresses Gratitude To Real Betis Fans For Ovation

By Max Wise

Football fans publicly adulating players of the opposition is a rare sight in the game, but that is the feat Lionel Messi chalked when his stunning hat-trick inspired Barcelona to a 4-1 victory away to Real Betis on Sunday, and the Argentine has thanked the Verdiblancos for their kind gesture.

Messi’s treble on Sunday was his 33rd hat-trick in La Liga as Barcelona took advantage of Atletico Madrid’s 2-0 defeat at Athletic Bilbao to move 10 points clear at the top of the table.

The Barcelona captain received a standing ovation and a round of applause for his efforts from the Real Betis supporters after the game, leaving the Argentine great to express his gratitude to the home fans.

The truth is that I do not remember it [happening before]," Messi said to Movistar after scoring his 33rd LaLiga hat-trick.

"I am grateful for the response from the fans. Whenever we come to this stadium they treat us very well, very grateful and happy for the victory, which was very important.

"Great goals, but above all the important thing was to get the three points. It was a very good opportunity to increase the distance, we knew the Atletico Madrid result and we could not fail."

"We played against a team that treats the ball well," Messi added. "Tactically it was perfect and we did not suffer, just the opposite.

"We have to adapt, there are specific moments and games and we have to be prepared for everything, good things will come."