Messi breaks Muller’s 40-year old record with brace at Betis

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi last night broke Gerd Muller’s record of 85 goals in a calendar year as his double helped Tito Vilanova’s side to a 2-1 victory at Real Betis.

The Argentina international grabbed the opener in the 16th minute with a trademark dribble and finish to move level with the German striker, who achieved the feat in 1972.

His second goal of the evening, and 86th in a remarkable 2012, came with another left-footed shot past Adrian after he had been teed up by Andres Iniesta after 25 minutes.

Betis got themselves back into the contest six minutes before the break as Martin Ruben Castro reduced the arrears from six yards out, converting Alvaro Vadillo’s cross from the left.

Betis threatened to force an equaliser but Barca held on and stay six points clear of Atletico Madrid at the top.

Atletico had earlier demolished Deportivo La Coruna 6-0 with Radamel Falcao giving another demonstration of his predatory instincts with a five-goal haul.

Diego Costa headed the hosts in front midway through the first half but thereafter it was a one-man show.

On Saturday, Atletico’s city rivals Real Madrid came from behind to win 3-2 at Real Valladolid with Mesut Ozil scoring twice.

In Italy, Inter Milan are now the nearest challengers to Juventus at the top of Serie A after defeating Napoli 2-1 at the San Siro.

Fredy Guarin and Diego Milito got the goals for Andrea Stramaccioni’s side, who were grateful for a profligate Napoli performance.

Edinson Cavani did get a goal back for the visitors, but they paid the price for poor finishing and misfortune in front of goal as they relinquished second spot and fell five points behind Juventus, with Inter one point above them.