Lionel Messi put in a match-winning performance for Barcelona against fierce rivals Espanyol on Saturday - but he was very fortunate not to receive his marching orders late on.
Messi achieved another career milestone as Barcelona maintained their 10-point lead at the top of La Liga with a 2-0 derby win over Espanyol.
Messi's late double at the Nou Camp ensured he surpassed 40 goals in a season for the 10th successive year.
The hosts had been largely frustrated by their resolute opponents until Messi broke the deadlock in the 71st minute with a chipped ‘Panenka’ free-kick.
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Then Messi, who had been an injury doubt for the game because of injury, turned in a cross by substitute Malcom to seal victory one minute from time.
But following those exploits, Messi was involved in a stoppage-time tangle in the Espanyol penalty area in which he appeared to kick out at an opponent.
The Argentina superstar went down in the box under a challenge from Roberto Rosales, appealing for a penalty.
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Then when Esteban Granero, the former Real Madrid player, picked up the loose ball, Messi appeared to kick out at the Espanyol midfielder.
Messi seemed to take two swipes at the Spaniard, making contact on a second attempt, before later apologising to his rival.
Fans on social media were quick to react to the incident, many believing he should have been sent off by referee Carlos del Cerro Grande.
