It looked ominous for Messi as he was carried from the pitch but initial fears of a serious injury were allayed following tests on Monday, when it was confirmed there was only ankle ligament damage but no break.

The Argentina international is set to miss at least two games with the injury.

Ujfalusi's challenge has been widely condemned in Spain and there had been suggestions the Czech defender could face a ban of up to 12 matches.

However, the Spanish Football Federation tonight suspended him for two games, meaning he will miss this week's fixtures against Valencia and Real Zaragoza.