Lionel Messi came out on top as Barcelona romped to a 6-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in a dramatic Primera League confrontation.

Barca went into the game three points behind 'yellow submarines' Villarreal in second place. And all eyes were on two of football's most prominent and talented superstars - Argentinian team-mates Messi and Kun Aguero - both of whom have already achieved world stardom as individual performers on the pitch.

Some 75,232 fans packed out Camp Nou stadium and Barcelona fans were certainly given value for money as their heroes went 2-0 up in just over six minutes. A fine headed goal from the veteran Rafael Marquez ensured that first blood would go to the home side, and Samuel Eto'o added a penalty after Messi was chopped down by Atletico defender Tomas Ujfalusi.

Only nine minutes had gone when Messi secured a 3-0 lead - and all emphasis was then shifted on to the pacy, energetic South American forward.

Atletico replied in the 13th minute but Maxi Rodriguez's goal made little difference as Barcelona looked like a side possessed. The fluency of play was phenomenal, to say the least, and waves of worship flowed around the stadium as Messi's trickery continued to impress.

Atletico's disappointing performance gave Liverpool a glimpse of what they can expect when the two clubs meet in their upcoming back-to-back Champions League Group D fixtures. Leaders Atletico will have to improve if they are to clinch a victory against a strong Anfield squad, who I feel could go far in the competition this year.