Messi strikes twice in 2nd half to keep Barcelona near top

MADRID (AP) — Lionel Messi helped to keep Barcelona near the top of the Spanish league on Sunday, scoring two second-half goals in a 3-2 win over Valencia. The away victory moved Barcelona within two points of leader Atlético Madrid ahead of their match at the Camp Nou Stadium next weekend. A win will give Ronald Koeman's team the league lead for the first time this season.