The Barca legend scores his 650th goal against Athletic Club

captain

Lionel Messi

scored his 650th goal for his side early doors in Sunday’s 2-1 victory over

. The visitors were able to pull them level courtesy of Jordi Alba’s own goal.

Barca sealed the three points as

Antoine Griezmann

scored a late winner through Oscar Mingueza’s cross.

While Messi’s 650th goal was scored, Barca decided to take legal action against

El Mundo

newspaper following what they published about the Argentina star’s €555 million (£491m/$674m) contract details.

The 33-year-old turned his concentration back to the pitch and netted his 49th direct free-kick for the Blaugrana, 38 of them were scored in La Liga.

Barcelona are sitting second in the

table, 10 points adrift of the current leaders

, who have one game in hand. As Messi’s contract reaches its final months, the title race is becoming a challenge for the club legend.

Griezmann praised his team-mate, whom he believes played a crucial role in his side’s five victories in a row in La Liga.

"

Messi is a legend, we are enjoying him, and hopefully he will keep helping us win

," the France international said. 

The 29-year-old also hailed Ousmane Dembele for overcoming his injury and featuring in five consecutive games for Barca.

"

Dembele is playing very well

," Griezmann added. "

We just want to get him in the best shape as possible so he can help us as much as possible

."

Barca are set to go against

in the Copa del Rey quarter-final and will then lock horns with

in La Liga next weekend.

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