LA LIGA:LIONEL MESSI and Cristiano Ronaldo were vying for top billing in La Liga on Saturday after leading their sides to victories.

Argentina’s Messi scored twice for leaders Barcelona in a 3-1 victory at Deportivo Coruna.

Portugal’s Ronaldo won and missed a penalty, scored a goal and was then sent off as Real Madrid came back to beat visiting Almeria 4-2.

The former Manchester United star’s first caution came after he removed his shirt while celebrating his goal, while the referee brandished a second yellow when he kicked out at Juanma Ortiz.

The champions Barcelona are top with 36 points from 14 games, five ahead of second-placed Real who have played a game less.

Messi gave Barca a deserved lead at the Riazor scoring from the edge of the area after 27 minutes.

But Depor levelled when a punt from the goalkeeper was inadvertently flicked on by Sergio Busquets and Adrian headed past Victor Valdes before half-time.

Substitute Pedro crossed for an unopposed Messi to head Barca back in front after a well-worked move in the 80th and in-form Zlatan Ibrahimovic rounded off the scoring at the end.

The Swedish striker netted his 10th of the campaign, and third in three matches this week.

Real looked to be cruising at the Bernabeu when Sergio Ramos headed them in front after 31 minutes but the visitors netted twice in four minutes midway through the second half.

Gonzalo Higuain levelled for Real in the 74th before Ronaldo flung himself over Almeria goalkeeper Diego Alves to win a disputed penalty in the 81st.

Alves saved the spot-kick but Karim Benzema converted the rebound and Ronaldo made it 4-2 two minutes later.