DHAKA: Barcelona's Lionel Messi became the Champions League's all-time top scorer with a hat-trick against Apoel Nicosia.

Messi went into the Group F game in Cyprus level on 71 goals with former Real Madrid forward Raul.

Luis Suarez had already opened the scoring with his first goal for the club when Messi diverted Rafinha's 38th-minute shot past the keeper.

Messi netted his second in the 58th-minute with a low right-foot finish before tapping home from close range.

BDST: 0844 HRS, NOV 26, 2014