New season, same old Messi.
The Barcelona talisman started his Champions League campaign in blistering form on Tuesday, scoring a spectacular hat-trick as PSV Eindhoven were thrashed at the Nou Camp.
— Nick Harris (@sportingintel) September 18, 2018
The 31-year-old opened the scoring in the 31st minute with a trademark free kick, before he slid in an exquisite volley on 77 minutes for his second.
It was a remarkable 42nd treble for Messi in his Barcelona career, and a record eighth in the Champions League – taking him one ahead of fierce rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) September 18, 2018
It also took his tally in the competition to 103 goals, while 61 goals in 64 were netted in group stage games - another record held by the Argentine maestro.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – 120
2. Lionel Messi – 103
3. Raul – 71
4. Ruud van Nistelrooy – 56
5. Karim Benzema – 56