Barcelona may miss Messi for trip to Real Betis

BARCELONA, Spain (AP) -Barcelona will travel to Real Betis on Sunday amid concerns about Lionel Messi after the forward bruised his left knee in a Champions League match.

With Barcelona already assured a first-place finish in its group, Messi entered Wednesday's game against Benfica with about 30 minutes to play. The Argentine needs only one goal to match Gerd Mueller's 40-year-old record of 85 goals in a single year.

Instead of making history, Messi was carried off late after colliding with the Benfica goalkeeper.

Barcelona said its leading scorer is doubtful for the trip to play a Betis side that has climbed into fourth place after winning its last two games, including a victory over Real Madrid.

Madrid faces what could be a tougher-than-expected test at Valladolid on Saturday.