Messi's record breaking treble steers Barca to top of La Liga table

Argentina football team captain Lionel Messi has rewritten La Liga record books after netting his 32nd hat-trick to steer Barcelona to a 6-1 win over Rayo Vallecano, and place his side on top of the Spanish league table at the Nou Camp on Sunday night.

Forward Luiz Suarez provided the initial thrust as the Uruguayan put Barca ahead in the fifth minute before Gerard Pique doubled the lead shortly after the first half.

Subsequently, Messi fired into action as he broke the record of the most hat-tricks in Spanish football after putting three goals in the space of just 12 minutes, Stuff.co.nz reported.

The record of the most number of hat-tricks in Spanish football was previously held by Athletic Bilbao striker Telmo Zarra.

Alberto Bueno netted a consolation penalty for Rayo after he had been fouled by Dani Alves, who was given a red card.

Suarez eventually wrapped up the game for Barca in the last minute following a pass from Messi.

With the win, Barca are now one point ahead of Real Madrid in the points table and will face the latter on 22 March at the Nou Camp.