![epa06612764 FC Barcelona's forward Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring a goal against Athletic de Bilbao during the Spanish Primera Division soccer match between Barcelona and Athletic de Bilbao at Camp Nou stadium, in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain, 18 March 2018. EPA/QUIQUE GARCIA](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/7FUQ64HC3724EEOAQMSJWJUW2M.jpg?smart=true&auth=87395b7beb26a791e6728fab99aee61a602da15c23ba1dc412769dd3cae43903&width=400&height=225)
Barcelona's Lionel Messi is on target to play 72 games for club and country this season. Quique Garcia / EPA
Barcelona's Lionel Messi is on target to play 72 games for club and country this season. Quique Garcia / EPA
Balancing act of staying unbeaten in the Primera Liga while going for the Uefa Champions League is challenge for Barcelona and Lionel Messi
The Catalans have had a great season so far but face a demanding final few weeks of the campaign