• La Liga

Messi limps off during Betis clash

ESPN staff
November 10, 2013
Lionel Messi has not scored in his last four La Liga games © Getty Images
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Lionel Messi cut a dejected figure after limping off after only 21 minutes during Barcelona's 4-1 La Liga win at Real Betis on Sunday.

Messi was replaced by Andres Iniesta midway through the first half at the Benito Villamarin, after suffering an injury to his left leg. The four-time world player of the year has had numerous injury troubles this season, including a hamstring problem in August and a thigh injury in September.

Barcelona confirmed via their official Twitter feed that Messi had injured his left leg and will undergo further tests on Monday.

The Argentina international departed with the score goalless, before Neymar and Pedro struck within two minutes of each other to give the away side a 2-0 lead at half time.

Cesc Fabregas scored a second half double to put the tie beyond doubt, before Jorge Molina netted reduced the deficit from the spot.

Barcelona currently sit top of La Liga having amassed 37 points from 13 games, three points ahead of Atletico Madrid and six ahead of Real Madrid. Messi has scored 14 goals in 18 games this campaign, but has not found the net in his last four league matches.

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