The footballing world is running out of superlatives to describe Lionel Messi.The Argentinian forward has been at the peak of his powers for some time and he was at it again on Sunday night.Barcelona travelled to Real Betis knowing a win would see them open up their lead in La Liga to 10 points.And Messi made sure that happened with a quite phenomenal display.He scored a quite brilliant hat-trick but the last was without doubt the pick of the bunch.

Barca were cruising to victory and Messi was looking to secure the match ball.

The ball was laid back to him just inside the box; a position where most players would put their foot through the ball and power an effort at goal.

However, Messi is no ordinary player.

The 31-year-old attempted an audacious lob, which found the back of the net with aid from the crossbar.

Watch it below:

Just exquisite.

However, another camera angle of the goal has emerged and it makes it look even better.

Wow. That is just perfection.

Ernesto Valverde said after the game that their opponents 'suffer' but 'enjoy' playing against Messi.

"Our opponents suffer because of Messi, but they also enjoy him," Valverde said after the game, per Marca.

"His match tonight was extraordinary, he's scored three goals and also made a fourth.

"The public has recognised his talent, they are enjoying seeing him in his prime and they respect him for the player he is."

Messi then said he was 'grateful' for Betis fans after they applauded his third goal.

"I'm very grateful," he said, per Marca.

"It's never happened to me before. They always treat us very well, regardless of whether we're rivals."