El Clasico: Twitter reacts

A hat-trick from Lionel Messi helped Barcelona to record a 4-3 win over Real Madrid in what was one of the most entertaining El Clasico clashes in recent memory.

It was an encounter that had footballers past and present sharing their views on Twitter.

Below, Sports Mole has picked out some of the best reaction to the seven-goal contest.

Messi with Hat tricks back to back like Kappa !!! #ElClassico

— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) March 23, 2014

"I can't believe there is someone out there who has been sent off more times than me!!!!!! #sergioramos." Former Birmingham City defender Darren Purse

"2.2 half time ElClassico. Both teams as dangerous. 2 totally different styles. Which one is the answer?? More than 1 way to skin a cat." Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick

"Great great game of football. So happy that Barca came away with the 3 points. Barcelona remained composed throughout. #ElClasico 3-4." Former Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur winger Rohan Ricketts

Messi will get all the headlines tonight but Andres Iniesta was outstanding as was Xavi. #itsaballnotabomb

— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) March 23, 2014

"Bale / Di Maria and Ronaldo counter attacking and WIDE play is devastating!!" Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville

"Cracking game even if it got a bit tetchy near the end! #ElClasico." Former Norwich City attacker Darren Huckerby

"What a poor season so far for Messi just the 34 goals!! Needs to kick on!" Former Wales international Iwan Roberts

Vamooooooos!!! Qué gran victoria en el Bernabeu!!! Con el mas grande!!! @andresiniesta8 #ForçaBarça ! Visca el Barça! pic.twitter.com/wgvafAJ6on

— Marc Bartra (@MarcBartra91) March 23, 2014