Lionel Messi moved into second place on the all-time list of Champions League goalscorers with his 27th career hat-trick as Barcelona beat Ajax 4-0 at the Nou Camp on Wednesday.
.
The four-time World Player of the Year now has 62 Champions League goals to his name as Barca cruised to victory in the first ever competitive meeting between the two sides.
.
Messi opened the scoring on 22 minutes with a sensational free-kick and made the game safe 10 minutes after halftime with a typically cool left- footed finish.
.
Gerard Pique added a third when he headed Neymar's cross past the stranded Kenneth Vermeer before Messi rounded off the scoring 15 minutes from time.
.
"In the first-half we found it a bit difficult because they played well, but in the second we moved the ball much better and controlled the game," Messi told Canal Plus.
.
"In general I think we played a very good game. The more variety we have the better. There are games where we need to manage the ball, control the game, and others which are more difficult where we will need to do a bit more."
.
Messi also took time to lend his support to coach Gerardo Martino, who will fly back to Argentina after the game to attend his father's funeral.
.
"It was a special game. It is a shame what has happened and he is suffering, but we are all with him in this moment."
.
Martino thanked the team for their support and was happier with the balance Barca showed in contrast to their nerve-wracking 3-2 win over Sevilla at the weekend.
I watched the game and I must say Lionel Messi is Fantastic!