Barcelona took a massive step towards the Primera Liga title on Saturday by beating their arch rivals and nearest challengers, with Messi scoring twice.

They now enjoy a seven-point lead in the table and can look forward to Wednesday's Champions League semi-final, second leg with Chelsea and the Copa del Rey final against Athletic Bilbao on May 13 in Valencia.

Messi told the Clarin newspaper: "This is the most important win in my life.

"In the beginning of the match I was quite angry with myself because I was failing in what I was trying to do and I missed a couple of goals, but then we proved why we should be the champions.

"I think we have made history, haven't we?"

The Argentina forward dedicated the victory to former Barcelona team-mates such as Ronaldinho, currently at AC Milan.

"Last week I texted Ronnie, Deco, (Juliano) Belletti and (Thiago) Motta and I promised a goal for them," Messi added.

"I had already scored four goals against Real but all of them were at the Nou Camp. These ones I scored were at Madrid, so it is much nicer."

Messi expects Chelsea not to play so defensively at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday after a goalless draw in the first leg.

"I hope Chelsea will be more open," he said.