While 2008 was Cristiano Ronaldo's year to scoop up all the awards, Lionel Messi wasn't too far behind the Manchester United star. It looks as though Messi is ready to make 2009 his year after kicking off the new year in spectacular fashion for Barcelona with a hat-trick in his first match, a 3-1 Copa Del Rey win vs. Atletico Madrid.
Check out Messi's first and third goals, both deserving of a look and a wow, after the jump: