Messi ensures extra edge to El Clasico

MADRID - Lionel Messi kept Barcelona's title hopes alive with two goals and an assist to see off Real Sociedad 3-2 as Spain's top two edged five-goal thrillers ahead of this weekend's El Clasico.

Earlier on Saturday, Isco struck at the death to keep Real Madrid three points clear with a game in hand at the top of the standings after twice coming from behind to beat Sporting Gijon 3-2.

Barcelona will need Messi on this form if it is to produce another miracle Champions League fightback against Juventus on Wednesday, having slumped to a 3-0 first-leg loss last week.