Messi does it all in Barca romp on Neymar's debut

BARCELONA, Spain (AP) Lionel Messi scored two goals and set up another Sunday to help mark the debut of Neymar and Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino in a 7-0 thrashing of Levante, ensuring the Spanish champions start their title defense in style.

While Barcelona rolled to victory, Real Madrid needed a late header by new midfielder Francisco "Isco" Alarcon to edge out Real Betis 2-1 at home in the first game with Carlo Ancelotti in charge after three season under Jose Mourinho.

Madrid's lackluster showing will add more pressure on president Florentino Perez to pay the hefty price Tottenham desires for forward Gareth Bale to reinforce its attack.

Also, Atletico Madrid forward Diego Costa did his best to erase memories of Radamel Falcao by scoring twice, including a well-taken go-ahead goal off the break in the 79th minute, to lead a 3-1 win at Sevilla. Granada, meanwhile, won 2-1 at Osasuna

Read More: http://sports.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/eng_ch/story.asp?i=20130818145432599822308&ref=hea&tm=&src=EUSOC#ixzz2cVcNWToS