The Argentina ace grimaced in acute pain following a tackle by Tomas Ujfalusi and was stretchered off as he shed a few tears.

The challenge caused Ujfalusi to be sent off for two bookable offences.

"We are happy with the win but sad about Messi," said Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola moments after the full-time whistle.

"The TV pictures speak for themselves. It is not only Cristiano Ronaldo [of Real Madrid] who needs protecting. The referees should protect all the players."