(CNN) -- Lionel Messi scored four times as Barcelona routed Valencia to keep alive their slim chances of overhauling Real Madrid at the top of Spain's La Liga. The Argentina striker took his tally for the league season to 27, one behind Real's Cristiano Ronaldo, and has scored 44 in all competitions for the Spanish and European champions this campaign. Barcelona's win closed the gap on Real Madrid to 10 points, though Jose Mourinho's side are still the overwhelming favorites to clinch the title with two and a half months of the season remaining. "We're so lucky to be living in a time when these players play. This team dignifies the sport," coach Pep Guardiola said of his team's performance.
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Lionel Messi scores four times as Barcelona beat Valencia 5-1 in Spain's La Liga
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Argentina striker takes his tally for the season to 42 goals, 27 in the league
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Barca close the gap on league leaders Real Madrid to ten points
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AC Milan go top of Italy's Serie A after a 3-1 win away at Cesena
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