Barcelona forward Lionel Messi set a La Liga scoring record of 253 goals when he netted a hat-trick in last night’s 5-1 win at home to Sevilla.

The previous record has been held by former Athletic Bilbao striker Telmo Zarra since 1955, which marked the end of the Spaniard’s 15-year career with the Basque club.

Zarra scored his 251 goals in 277 appearances, while Argentina captain Messi needed 289 games.

Forward Messi, 27, equalled the record in the 21st minute with a typically breathtaking strike, curling a left-footed shot around the wall and past Sevilla goalkeeper Beto into the net.

He struck again from close range in the 72nd minute and scored a third six minutes later with a powerful low drive from the edge of the penalty area.

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