Lionel Messi grabbed a hat-trick as Barcelona responded emphatically to questions over their motivation by demolishing Osasuna 8-0 in a staggering display of attacking football at the Nou Camp last night.

Messi scored his first goal after just five minutes as the Spanish and European champions rebounded from two successive draws to deliver the perfect response to critics who claimed they had become complacent with success.

Cesc Fabregas, playing instead of Pedro Rodriguez, soon scored their second before David Villa rounded the keeper just after the half hour mark and slotted home.

An own-goal from Ruben Gonzalez added to Osasuna’s misery and Messi was on target again before the break.

There was no drop in pace this time from Barca as in their games against Real Sociedad and Milan, and they continued to punish Osasuna.

Xavi lobbed the keeper and then Villa and Messi both struck again to wrap up the scoring.

It will be a warning to Real Madrid who face Levante today that they will not let go of their league title without a fight.

Earlier a poacher’s goal from in-form Roberto Soldado gave Valencia a 1-0 win over Sporting Gijon to maintain their 100 per cent start to the season.

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