Barca's Motta out for two weeks with thigh strain

MADRID, Apr 3 (Reuters) Barcelona midfielder Thiago Motta will be out for two weeks after suffering a thigh strain during his side's 1-1 draw against Real Madrid at the Nou Camp at the weekend, club medical staff said today.

The Brazilian will miss his side's Champions League quarter-final, second leg against Benfica on Wednesday but could be back in time to play in the semi-final if the Catalans manage to overcome the Portuguese side.

Barca drew 0-0 against Benfica in last week's first leg in Lisbon.

The Spanish champions will also be without Argentine forward Lionel Messi for the Benfica match. The 18-year-old was back in training today after a month out with a torn thigh muscle but medical staff say he is not yet ready to play.

Defenders Rafael Marquez, Edmilson and Silvinho are also out injured, but captain Carles Puyol is back after missing the first leg through suspension.

REUTERS PM BS2116