London [England], Sept.22 : Star striker Lionel Messi suffered a groin injury as Barcelona were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw at the hands of Atletico Madrid in their La Liga clash at the Camp Nou on Thursday.

Although Messi made Barcelona's first effort in the 14th minute of the clash, but it was comfortably saved by Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak.

The home side were almost on course to slash down Real Madrid's lead in the La Liga table to one point when Ivan Rakitic put his side ahead in the 41st minute of the match.

However, Atletico Mardrid soon responded by scoring the equalizer via substitute Angel Correa in the 61st minute, the Guardian reported.

It was after the half-time when the Luis Enrique-led side lost Sergio Busquets to injury and Messi soon afterwards.

Barcelona are currently standing third in the standings behind Sevilla and table toppers Real, who recently equalled Barcelona's La Liga record with a scrappy 2-0 win over Espanyol on Monday.

Barcelona will now lock horns with Sporting on September 24. (ANI)