Barcelona have relinquished the top spot in La Liga with a goalless draw at home to Sevilla.

The hosts dominated much of the play in the first half but were denied by a string of fine saves from Sevilla goalkeeper Javi Varas.

Despite Barca's superiority, the visitors almost took the lead when a mix-up between Eric Abidal and Victor Valdes nearly let in Jesus Navas to score.

Pep Guardiola's side were uncharacteristically wayward with their passing in the second half but eventually found their rhythm, only to be kept out again by Varas.

The Sevilla keeper was in inspired form and pushed away everything the home side threw at him.

Barcelona were awarded a penalty in injury-time when Andres Iniesta was brought down in the area. Sevilla striker Freddie Kanoute was sent off for his protests, but Varas saved Messi's spot kick.

Fernando Navarro was also dismissed for the visitors late on for a second yellow card.