Lionel Messi guides Barcelona to derby victory over Espanyol

Barcelona's Lionel Messi, left, celebrates after scoring his side's second goal during a Spanish La Liga soccer match between FC Barcelona and Espanyol at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona, Spain, Saturday March 30, 2019. [Courtesy]

Lionel Messi scored twice to earn Barcelona a 2-0 derby win over Espanyol and send them 13 points clear at the top of La Liga on Saturday.

With second-placed Atletico Madrid travelling to Alaves later in the day, the champions took advantage of the chance to extend their lead.