Boss hails ‘best ever’ Lionel after his late winner settles dramatic Clasico

MADRID — Barcelona coach Luis Enrique reveled in turning the tables on Real Madrid as Lionel Messi struck deep into stoppage time to edge a thrilling El Clasico 3-2 at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium on Sunday.

Messi’s second goal of the night was his 500th for Barcelona and took the Catalans to the top of La Liga.

“For me, he is the best player ever, and I have seen a lot of football,” said Enrique.

“In modern football when everyone is tactically and physically better he still makes the difference.

“The fact he has scored his 500th goal shows all of us as Barca fans we are lucky to have him.”

The victory saw Barca gain revenge for Sergio Ramos’ stoppage-time equalizer in a 1-1 draw in December, the last time the teams met.

“It is marvelous for us to win in the 92nd minute,” added Enrique.

“It is something that is normally more a characteristic of our rival, but we like to do it too.”

Barca leapfrogged Real at the top of the standings thanks to its better head-tohead record. Madrid, though, has a game in hand.

“To score in the 92nd minute is a huge confidence boost,” said Enrique, who will leave the club at the end of the campaign.

However, he and Barca captain Andres Iniesta called on Messi, whose contract expires at the end of next season, not to follow him in leaving Camp Nou.

“Barca is an incredible club

For me, he is the best player ever, and I have seen a lot of football.” Luis Enrique, Barcelona coach, on Lionel Messi

with many years of history, but without doubt an important part of that history is Leo Messi,” Enrique said.

Blessed

“I think the great thing about Leo is that he continues to surprise,” said Iniesta.

“After so many years he is still decisive. It is an honor and a blessing for the club to have him.”

By contrast, Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane rued his