Messi takes the lead over Ronaldo after scoring a hat-trick.

Barca are playing for Messi's European Golden Boot award.

Because both teams were motivated, the match was quite exciting. However, as time went on, the difference in class between the two teams became apparent in their finishing. As early as the 13th minute, from a cross by Iniesta, center-back Puyol coolly finished past goalkeeper Kameni, opening the scoring.

Despite conceding an early goal, the visitors didn't lose their fighting spirit. Instead, they launched a varied attack to equalize in the 26th minute through Rondon. However, their joy was short-lived. In the 35th minute, Messi scored his second goal against Malaga, putting Barca ahead.

In the second half, despite the best efforts of coach Pellegrini's team, against a powerful Barca side, the visiting goalkeeper had to pick the ball out of the net two more times, leaving Malaga empty-handed. Fortunately for Malaga, they still maintained their fourth position, as their rivals Levante lost 0-1 away to Zaragoza.