The player that has scored more goals than Messi in Spain this season

Not many can match Messi's prolific record in front of goal, but Mata is doing exactly that.

With his strikes against Numancia, the 29-year-old climbed to 14 goals this season, while Messi sits on 13.

Despite his early brace in Sunday's match, Real Valladolid let a 2-0 lead slip to eventually lose 3-2.

As well as scoring 14 goals, Mata has also provided two assists this campaign, putting him on the radar of various La Liga clubs.

Here is a full breakdown of the striker's goals in the Spanish second division: Sevilla Atletico (2), Cultural Leonesa (2), Granada (1), Cordoba (1), AD Alcorcon (2), Almeria (1), Lugo (1), Reus Deportiu (1), Real Oviedo (1), Numancia (2).