Barcelona, March 18 -- After Lionel Messi scored a wonderful third goal to complete his 51st career hat trick, Real Betis supporters did what only true fans can do when in the presence of genuine soccer genius.

They stood up, applauded Messi and joined with Barcelona fans in chanting out his name.

No, the game wasn't at Camp Nou. It was the Benito Villamarin Stadium in Seville that resounded with "Messi! Messi! Messi!"

It may end up as simply another superb performance by Messi, among so many in his trophy-laden career. But this game will be remembered by the 54,000 mostly Betis spectators who turned up on Sunday to back their team, only to end up honoring the man who helped deal it a hefty defeat.

Messi said he had never received suc...