Lionel Messi makes history in Barcelona 2-1 comeback win over Rayo Vallecano in the Copa del Rey encounter on Wednesday night to reach the quarter-final.

Messi surpasses Josep Samitier in the Catalán side list of most all-time Copa del Rey appearances with 76 over former Barcelona Star.

🔝 Leo #Messi surpasses Josep Samitier on Club list of most all-time Copa del Rey appearances!

🐐 7️⃣6️⃣
Josep Samitier 7️⃣5️⃣
Andrés Iniesta 7️⃣3️⃣
Vicenç Piera 7️⃣1️⃣
Xavi 7️⃣0️⃣ pic.twitter.com/6tDTf9IUeZ

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 27, 2021

Rayo Vallecano, who are fourth in the Spanish second tier, took a shock lead when Barcelona goalkeeper Neto failed to deal with a low cross into the area, allowing Fran Garcia to bundle over from close range.

However, Barcelona hit back six minutes later when Messi, back from a two-game ban after his first red card for the club, slotted in Antoine Griezmann’s pass.

Barcelona captain Messi was also the architect for the winner, releasing substitute Jordi Alba down the left to provide a low cross that was met by Frenkie De Jong’s perfectly timed run.

Both Atletico and Real Madrid suffered embarrassing exits to lower league opposition in the Copa del Rey, leaving Ronald Koeman’s men as the favourites to lift the trophy.