Lionel Messi has the chance to extend his goalscoring world record for 2012 even further this evening after he was selected in the Barcelona starting lineup to take on Atletico Madrid.

The Argentine will play in an attacking role alongside Pedro and Alex Sanchez.

Elsewhere, Sergio Busquets has been preferred to Alex Song and Javier Mascherano in the holding midfield position.

As expected, visiting Atletico will begin the encounter with Colombian international Falcao as a lone striker.

Barcelona: Valdes; Adriano, Pique, Puyol, Alba; Sergio, Xavi, Iniesta; Pedro, Sanchez; Messi

Atletico: Courtois; Juanfran, Miranda, Godin, Filipe; Mario, Gabi, Arda, Koke, Costa; Falcao