Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has said Barcelona will have the edge in their much-anticipated Champions League quarter-final against Manchester United and has backed the Spanish club to lift the title for a sixth time.

United have rediscovered their verve under interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who took over from Jose Mourinho in December, and has guided the club to 14 wins in 19 games.

Pochettino, however, feels United still have a lot of work to do to compete with Barcelona, who are 10 points clear at the top of the La Liga standings.

"If there is one favourite team to win Champions League it is Barcelona," former Espanyol boss Pochettino told reporters.

"(Ernesto) Valverde is doing a great job. They have players of extraordinary level, and then they have Lionel Messi.

"I think the Manchester United team that has been built during the past few years was built to win big things. But I think Barcelona are one step higher than Manchester United."

Spurs will face domestic rivals Manchester City in the quarter-finals, with Pochettino indicating Pep Guardiola's reigning English champions are built to win Europe's elite trophy.

"It is clear that Manchester City are a team designed to win and with an obligation to win," he added.

"We will try to compete. We know that in short tournaments the fitness of the team at the time is very important. We have the incentive that we have a new stadium and we will play with 62,000 spectators. That will create a special energy."

Tottenham will complete the move to their new 62,000-seater stadium before they host City on April 9.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has said Barcelona will have the edge in their much-anticipated Champions League quarter-final against Manchester United and has backed the Spanish club to lift the title for a sixth time.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has said Barcelona will have the edge in their much-anticipated Champions League quarter-final against Manchester United and has backed the Spanish club to lift the title for a sixth time. United have rediscovered their verve under interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who took over from Jose Mourinho in December, and has guided the club to 14 wins in 19 games. Pochettino, however, feels United still have a lot of work to do to compete with Barcelona, who are 10 points clear at the top of the La Liga standings. "If there is one favourite team to win Champions League it is Barcelona," former Espanyol boss Pochettino told reporters. "(Ernesto) Valverde is doing a great job. They have players of extraordinary level, and then they have Lionel Messi. "I think the Manchester United team that has been built during the past few years was built to win big things. But I think Barcelona are one step higher than Manchester United." Spurs will face domestic rivals Manchester City in the quarter-finals, with Pochettino indicating Pep Guardiola's reigning English champions are built to win Europe's elite trophy. "It is clear that Manchester City are a team designed to win and with an obligation to win," he added. "We will try to compete. We know that in short tournaments the fitness of the team at the time is very important. We have the incentive that we have a new stadium and we will play with 62,000 spectators. That will create a special energy." Tottenham will complete the move to their new 62,000-seater stadium before they host City on April 9.

Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino picks Barcelona as favourites to win Champions League

Barcelona forward Luis Suarez has been sidelined for up to 15 days after spraining his right ankle during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messis-hat-trick-earns-standing-ovation-from-betis-fans-barca-captain-says-very-grateful-203947">Barca's La Liga win over Real Betis</a> on Sunday.&nbsp;

Barcelona's website has released a statement, which confirmed that Suarez has a sprained right ankle and will undertake his recovery with the FC Barcelona medical team.&nbsp;

After the injury, Suarez has also withdrawn from the Uruguayan national team squad, which means, he will not feature in Uruguay's China Cup clash against Uzbekistan on Friday.&nbsp;

Suarez was taken off late on in the 1-4 win against Real Betis at the Benito Villamarin, having scored his side's third goal and provided an assist for Leo Messi.&nbsp;

His goal was his 18th in La Liga this season, and he is the second top scorer in La Liga behind only Messi (29).&nbsp;

It also took him level with Diego Forlan as the Uruguayan with the most goals in the division of all time, with 128.&nbsp;

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[MEDICAL REPORT] 
<a href="https://twitter.com/LuisSuarez9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LuisSuarez9</a> out for 10-15 days 
More details 👉 <a href="https://t.co/ldItYNolPW">https://t.co/ldItYNolPW</a> 
🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BetisBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BetisBarça</a> <a href="https://t.co/Gz0ftoSvBe">pic.twitter.com/Gz0ftoSvBe</a>
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Now, Suarez will hope to recover in time for Barca's La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid on April 6 and has just under four weeks to be ready for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Manchester United.&nbsp;

Barcelona forward Luis Suarez has been sidelined for up to 15 days after spraining his right ankle during Barca's La Liga win over Real Betis on Sunday. Barcelona's website has released a statement, which confirmed that Suarez has a sprained right ankle and will undertake his recovery with the FC Barcelona medical team.

Barcelona forward Luis Suarez has been sidelined for up to 15 days after spraining his right ankle during Barca's La Liga win over Real Betis on Sunday. Barcelona's website has released a statement, which confirmed that Suarez has a sprained right ankle and will undertake his recovery with the FC Barcelona medical team. After the injury, Suarez has also withdrawn from the Uruguayan national team squad, which means, he will not feature in Uruguay's China Cup clash against Uzbekistan on Friday. Suarez was taken off late on in the 1-4 win against Real Betis at the Benito Villamarin, having scored his side's third goal and provided an assist for Leo Messi. His goal was his 18th in La Liga this season, and he is the second top scorer in La Liga behind only Messi (29). It also took him level with Diego Forlan as the Uruguayan with the most goals in the division of all time, with 128. [MEDICAL REPORT] @LuisSuarez9 out for 10-15 days More details 👉 https://t.co/ldItYNolPW 🔵🔴 #BetisBarça pic.twitter.com/Gz0ftoSvBe — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 18, 2019 × Now, Suarez will hope to recover in time for Barca's La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid on April 6 and has just under four weeks to be ready for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Manchester United.

Luis Suarez sidelined for 10-15 days with an ankle injury

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick of the highest quality as Barcelona avenged their defeat by Real Betis earlier in the season to move 10 points clear at the top of La Liga.

The Barcelona captain was in superb form scoring his 51st hat-trick with the first goal being a 20-yard free-kick before he converted Luis Suarez's backheel pass with a toe-poked strike.

Suarez scored a fine individual effort while Loren Moron grabbed Betis' only goal with a superb finish.

Messi, however, was applauded by Real Betis fans after scoring a brilliant third goal and thanked the opposition supporters for the kind gesture.

“I don’t remember being applauded by rival fans for a goal before. I am very grateful for the response of the supporters,” Messi said.

“I don’t know, I was lucky that both of them went in but above all we got the three points. We knew that we had a good opportunity to put a little distance between ourselves and Atlético and we couldn’t fail.”

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The Betis fans just had to applaud it.....<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> <a href="https://t.co/tMVEeIKdkd">pic.twitter.com/tMVEeIKdkd</a>
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It was yet another sensational performance from the GOAT, as it was a club-record 477th win in a Barcelona shirt.

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick of the highest quality as Barcelona avenged their defeat by Real Betis earlier in the season to move 10 points clear at the top of La Liga.

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick of the highest quality as Barcelona avenged their defeat by Real Betis earlier in the season to move 10 points clear at the top of La Liga. The Barcelona captain was in superb form scoring his 51st hat-trick with the first goal being a 20-yard free-kick before he converted Luis Suarez's backheel pass with a toe-poked strike. Suarez scored a fine individual effort while Loren Moron grabbed Betis' only goal with a superb finish. Messi, however, was applauded by Real Betis fans after scoring a brilliant third goal and thanked the opposition supporters for the kind gesture. “I don’t remember being applauded by rival fans for a goal before. I am very grateful for the response of the supporters,” Messi said. “I don’t know, I was lucky that both of them went in but above all we got the three points. We knew that we had a good opportunity to put a little distance between ourselves and Atlético and we couldn’t fail.” The Betis fans just had to applaud it.....#Messi pic.twitter.com/tMVEeIKdkd — Craig (@Craig_m93) March 17, 2019 × It was yet another sensational performance from the GOAT, as it was a club-record 477th win in a Barcelona shirt.

Lionel Messi's hat-trick earns standing ovation from Betis fans, Barca captain says 'very grateful'

David Beckham has less than a year before his new Major League football team, Inter Miami, takes the field and is finally turning his focus to bringing in players with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo on his mind.

When Beckham announced he would create an MLS franchise in Miami, five years ago, there was speculation that he would look to entice some of the biggest names in the game with talk of Messi or Ronaldo possibly ending their careers in Florida.

But, although Juventus forward Ronaldo is 34 and Barcelona's Messi will be 32 in June, former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Beckham knows it will be tough to get them to move - even if he has not given up on the prospect.

"Everyone has their wish list - everyone does! But if you look at the way Leo and Cristiano are still playing, even at what you might think is the later stage of their careers, I don't see it ending for them," he told a small group of reporters.

"They’re playing at such a high level that it’s hard to see them leaving the clubs they are at. But we will see. You never know what can happen in football."

Beckham, who played for MLS side LA Galaxy later in his career, and his small staff are beginning the process of identifying players and seeking to bring them in for the 2020 season.

"As an organisation, as a club, we are starting to look at players, and possibilities, at what is possible. We’ve got a great team here and we’ll start piecing the things together. But we have to do that quick because it’s only a year away," he said.

Beckham's contacts in the game will surely help him attract talent and he also needs to find a manager and coaching staff for his club.

Among those the 43-year-old former England captain has turned to for advice about his new role as an owner is former Manchester United chief executive David Gill.

"I’ve been speaking to people over that time. People like David Gill, who is someone who has a huge amount of experience at Manchester United, asking him about the job he did there," he said.

"But there are also other clubs and football people I’ve been around over my career and been able to have and gain experience from. I also have some great partners here in Miami, who understand the U.S market and the MLS.

"It’s a different world from the European leagues but it’s catching up really quickly and the excitement is there."

SALFORD CONNECTION

As well as getting his club off the ground, including negotiating a deal for a training complex and stadium in Fort Lauderdale [nL1N2111IC], Beckham has also joined his fellow 'Class of 92' United alumni including Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville, in taking a ten percent ownership stake in National League (fifth tier) English club Salford City.

The former midfielder says it is possible that the two clubs will co-operate, with academy and player development two areas that could see joint work.

"Who knows? With Salford the hard work has been done over the last few years, with bringing the club up to the level they’ve got to now. The lads have done such a great job and for myself to be part of that now is great," he said.

"There could be a crossover. The academy system is such an important part of it. Everybody in Europe knows how important that system is.

"To have an academy system that utilises the talent that runs through Miami is such important part, not just of our organisation but the entire MLS and the future of the sport in general."

David Beckham has less than a year before his new Major League football team, Inter Miami, takes the field and is finally turning his focus to bringing in players with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo on his mind.

David Beckham has less than a year before his new Major League football team, Inter Miami, takes the field and is finally turning his focus to bringing in players with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo on his mind. When Beckham announced he would create an MLS franchise in Miami, five years ago, there was speculation that he would look to entice some of the biggest names in the game with talk of Messi or Ronaldo possibly ending their careers in Florida. But, although Juventus forward Ronaldo is 34 and Barcelona's Messi will be 32 in June, former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder Beckham knows it will be tough to get them to move - even if he has not given up on the prospect. "Everyone has their wish list - everyone does! But if you look at the way Leo and Cristiano are still playing, even at what you might think is the later stage of their careers, I don't see it ending for them," he told a small group of reporters. "They’re playing at such a high level that it’s hard to see them leaving the clubs they are at. But we will see. You never know what can happen in football." Beckham, who played for MLS side LA Galaxy later in his career, and his small staff are beginning the process of identifying players and seeking to bring them in for the 2020 season. "As an organisation, as a club, we are starting to look at players, and possibilities, at what is possible. We’ve got a great team here and we’ll start piecing the things together. But we have to do that quick because it’s only a year away," he said. Beckham's contacts in the game will surely help him attract talent and he also needs to find a manager and coaching staff for his club. Among those the 43-year-old former England captain has turned to for advice about his new role as an owner is former Manchester United chief executive David Gill. "I’ve been speaking to people over that time. People like David Gill, who is someone who has a huge amount of experience at Manchester United, asking him about the job he did there," he said. "But there are also other clubs and football people I’ve been around over my career and been able to have and gain experience from. I also have some great partners here in Miami, who understand the U.S market and the MLS. "It’s a different world from the European leagues but it’s catching up really quickly and the excitement is there." SALFORD CONNECTION As well as getting his club off the ground, including negotiating a deal for a training complex and stadium in Fort Lauderdale [nL1N2111IC], Beckham has also joined his fellow 'Class of 92' United alumni including Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville, in taking a ten percent ownership stake in National League (fifth tier) English club Salford City. The former midfielder says it is possible that the two clubs will co-operate, with academy and player development two areas that could see joint work. "Who knows? With Salford the hard work has been done over the last few years, with bringing the club up to the level they’ve got to now. The lads have done such a great job and for myself to be part of that now is great," he said. "There could be a crossover. The academy system is such an important part of it. Everybody in Europe knows how important that system is. "To have an academy system that utilises the talent that runs through Miami is such important part, not just of our organisation but the entire MLS and the future of the sport in general."

Dreaming of Messi and Ronaldo, Beckham looks for Miami signings

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Ole+Gunnar+Solskjaer">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a> says Manchester United are not scared of playing the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against at the Camp Nou after drawing Barcelona on Friday.

United were originally drawn to play at Barcelona in the first leg, which would have given them the safety net of playing the decisive return at Old Trafford.

But with Manchester City due to play their quarter-final second leg against Tottenham at home in the same week, UEFA decided to make United host Barca in the first leg on April 10, after stipulating in advance following advice from local authorities that United and City could not play at home on successive nights.

"I'm probably completely different to 99 per cent of managers, as I prefer away last like we had against PSG (in the previous round)," Solskjaer said.

After losing 2-0 to Paris Saint-Germain in Manchester, Solskjaer's side claimed a stunning 3-1 second-leg victory in the French capital to progress to the last eight.

"If you can get a decent result at home, then we know we can go away and hurt anyone like we did in Paris," he added.

Having to face Lionel Messi's Barca on their turf in the second leg on April 16 could put United at a disadvantage, as the Catalans have not lost any of their last 30 home games in the competition, winning all but three of those.

But United interim boss Solskjaer insists he is happy to travel to Spain with the tie potentially in the balance after his team showed they could cope with that pressure in the last 16.

"We want these games against the biggest clubs and the biggest teams. We had the final against them in 2009 and 2011 (both of which Barca won) and the semi-final in 2008 when Scholesy (Paul Scholes) scored," Solskjaer said.

"It's these games our fans and this club crave. We are looking forward to this one."

Solskjaer's trip to the Camp Nou will stir happy memories for the former United striker, who scored the dramatic stoppage-time winner in the club's famous Champions League final triumph against Bayern Munich in 1999.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Manchester United are not scared of playing the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against at the Camp Nou after drawing Barcelona on Friday.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Manchester United are not scared of playing the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against at the Camp Nou after drawing Barcelona on Friday. United were originally drawn to play at Barcelona in the first leg, which would have given them the safety net of playing the decisive return at Old Trafford. But with Manchester City due to play their quarter-final second leg against Tottenham at home in the same week, UEFA decided to make United host Barca in the first leg on April 10, after stipulating in advance following advice from local authorities that United and City could not play at home on successive nights. "I'm probably completely different to 99 per cent of managers, as I prefer away last like we had against PSG (in the previous round)," Solskjaer said. After losing 2-0 to Paris Saint-Germain in Manchester, Solskjaer's side claimed a stunning 3-1 second-leg victory in the French capital to progress to the last eight. "If you can get a decent result at home, then we know we can go away and hurt anyone like we did in Paris," he added. Having to face Lionel Messi's Barca on their turf in the second leg on April 16 could put United at a disadvantage, as the Catalans have not lost any of their last 30 home games in the competition, winning all but three of those. But United interim boss Solskjaer insists he is happy to travel to Spain with the tie potentially in the balance after his team showed they could cope with that pressure in the last 16. "We want these games against the biggest clubs and the biggest teams. We had the final against them in 2009 and 2011 (both of which Barca won) and the semi-final in 2008 when Scholesy (Paul Scholes) scored," Solskjaer said. "It's these games our fans and this club crave. We are looking forward to this one." Solskjaer's trip to the Camp Nou will stir happy memories for the former United striker, who scored the dramatic stoppage-time winner in the club's famous Champions League final triumph against Bayern Munich in 1999.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer insists Manchester United don't fear Camp Nou test after drawing Barcelona

Barcelona will meet Manchester United in the Champions League last eight in a repeat of the 2009 and 2011 finals which were both won by the Catalans, with the help of goals from Lionel Messi.

Manchester City face Tottenham Hotspur in an all-Premier League clash, their first-ever European meeting, while Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus meet Ajax Amsterdam, who are back in the last eight after a 16-year absence.

Liverpool, the fourth English representative, will face Porto in a repeat of last year's last 16 tie which they won 5-0 on aggregate.

The semi-final pairings were also made with Tottenham or City to face Ajax or Juventus and Manchester United or Barcelona to meet either Liverpool or Porto.

The draw had an unusual feel with neither Bayern Munich nor Real Madrid in the hat, the first time both European giants have failed to reach the last eight since 2005-06.

Barcelona, who are in the last eight for the 12th successive season, will be away in the first leg after UEFA switched the order to avoid United's home match clashing with Manchester City, who host Spurs in their second leg.

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😍 The quarter-final draw 😍 
 
🤔 Most exciting tie? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLdraw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLdraw</a> <a href="https://t.co/bpkwkVKvdH">pic.twitter.com/bpkwkVKvdH</a>
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Ajax, once a major European power who struggle to compete financially with clubs from bigger leagues, ousted Real Madrid in the last 16 and their tie against Juventus will be a repeat of the 1996 final, which the Serie A club won on penalties.

They also met in the final of the old European Cup in 1973 with the Dutch side winning 1-0.

"I'm neither happy nor sad. Ajax eliminated Madrid so they are no joke," said Juventus director Pavel Nedved. "I liked them a lot against Madrid so we will have to be very careful. We will have to face Ajax with great commitment: I expect two great games."

Remarkably, Juventus are unbeaten in their last ten meetings with Ajax, winning five of the last six.

Barcelona will meet Manchester United in the Champions League last eight in a repeat of the 2009 and 2011 finals which were both won by the Catalans, with the help of goals from Lionel Messi.

Barcelona will meet Manchester United in the Champions League last eight in a repeat of the 2009 and 2011 finals which were both won by the Catalans, with the help of goals from Lionel Messi. Manchester City face Tottenham Hotspur in an all-Premier League clash, their first-ever European meeting, while Cristiano Ronaldo's Juventus meet Ajax Amsterdam, who are back in the last eight after a 16-year absence. Liverpool, the fourth English representative, will face Porto in a repeat of last year's last 16 tie which they won 5-0 on aggregate. The semi-final pairings were also made with Tottenham or City to face Ajax or Juventus and Manchester United or Barcelona to meet either Liverpool or Porto. The draw had an unusual feel with neither Bayern Munich nor Real Madrid in the hat, the first time both European giants have failed to reach the last eight since 2005-06. Barcelona, who are in the last eight for the 12th successive season, will be away in the first leg after UEFA switched the order to avoid United's home match clashing with Manchester City, who host Spurs in their second leg. 😍 The quarter-final draw 😍 🤔 Most exciting tie? #UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/bpkwkVKvdH — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 15, 2019 × Ajax, once a major European power who struggle to compete financially with clubs from bigger leagues, ousted Real Madrid in the last 16 and their tie against Juventus will be a repeat of the 1996 final, which the Serie A club won on penalties. They also met in the final of the old European Cup in 1973 with the Dutch side winning 1-0. "I'm neither happy nor sad. Ajax eliminated Madrid so they are no joke," said Juventus director Pavel Nedved. "I liked them a lot against Madrid so we will have to be very careful. We will have to face Ajax with great commitment: I expect two great games." Remarkably, Juventus are unbeaten in their last ten meetings with Ajax, winning five of the last six.

Manchester United draw Barcelona in Champions League quarter-finals

Lionel Messi lead the way with two goals and two assists as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-outplay-bayern-munich-to-reach-quarter-finals-203183">Barcelona reached the quarter-finals</a> of the Champions League in style by thrashing Olympique Lyonnais 5-1 at home on Wednesday and advancing by the same scoreline on aggregate.

Barca captain Messi opened the scoring with a "Panenka" penalty chipped straight down the middle in the 17th minute after Luis Suarez was fouled in the area, putting the home side ahead in the tie after a goalless first leg in France.

Suarez then rounded Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes to lay on a perfect pass for the unmarked Philippe Coutinho to nudge into an open net and double Barca's lead, although Lyon hauled themselves back into contention with a second-half strike from Lucas Tousart.

Messi soon killed off any hopes of an unlikely comeback from the French side, however, carving his way through the defence to score in the 78th minute before toying with Lyon's back line twice more and laying off passes for Gerard Pique and then Ousmane Dembele to complete the rout.

"We played a great first half, then from a moment's distraction it was 2-1 and we had five or 10 delicate minutes," said Barca striker Suarez.

"We always knew it would be like this. The important thing is that we got the third goal and then we were far calmer."

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde had warned his side of complacency after Paris St Germain and Real Madrid's surprise exits, and his words carried more weight after Atletico Madrid were knocked out by Juventus despite a 2-0 first leg win.

His side were in a more vulnerable position as a score draw would have sent them out, and they began the game as if they meant business, with Messi firing an early shot which Lopes had to beat away for a corner.

Lyon's Lopes had to be taken off injured later in the first half, leaving the field in tears after taking a blow to the face, with Mathieu Gorgelin replacing him and making his Champions League debut.

Barca looked unsettled for a brief period after Tousart's goal had put Lyon one goal away from knocking the Catalans out, and the home side defended with an air of panic.

But Messi soon eased their nerves, toying with Lyon's defence before releasing a shot too powerful for Gorgelin to stop.

He continued to torment the visitors, gifting defender Pique a sliding tap-in with a beautiful pass and then setting up substitute Dembele.

Barca reached the last eight of Europe's elite competition for the 12th consecutive season and will be Spain's only representatives in Friday's quarter-final draw.

Lyon goalscorer Tousart had little complaint about the final result and said his side were powerless to deal with Messi.

"We have to concede they were better than us. We weren’t up to the challenge and we were up against a great team, and in the end we were well beaten," he said.

"There was no anti-Messi plan, and it's so difficult to defend against a player of his quality. He has instinctive talent."

Lyon coach Bruno Genesio added: "Tonight Messi was in Champions League mode. He's a genius and can do things that nobody else can. Sometimes he is just unstoppable."

Lionel Messi lead the way with two goals and two assists as Barcelona reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League in style by thrashing Olympique Lyonnais 5-1 at home on Wednesday and advancing by the same scoreline on aggregate.

Lionel Messi lead the way with two goals and two assists as Barcelona reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League in style by thrashing Olympique Lyonnais 5-1 at home on Wednesday and advancing by the same scoreline on aggregate. Barca captain Messi opened the scoring with a "Panenka" penalty chipped straight down the middle in the 17th minute after Luis Suarez was fouled in the area, putting the home side ahead in the tie after a goalless first leg in France. Suarez then rounded Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes to lay on a perfect pass for the unmarked Philippe Coutinho to nudge into an open net and double Barca's lead, although Lyon hauled themselves back into contention with a second-half strike from Lucas Tousart. Messi soon killed off any hopes of an unlikely comeback from the French side, however, carving his way through the defence to score in the 78th minute before toying with Lyon's back line twice more and laying off passes for Gerard Pique and then Ousmane Dembele to complete the rout. "We played a great first half, then from a moment's distraction it was 2-1 and we had five or 10 delicate minutes," said Barca striker Suarez. "We always knew it would be like this. The important thing is that we got the third goal and then we were far calmer." Barca coach Ernesto Valverde had warned his side of complacency after Paris St Germain and Real Madrid's surprise exits, and his words carried more weight after Atletico Madrid were knocked out by Juventus despite a 2-0 first leg win. His side were in a more vulnerable position as a score draw would have sent them out, and they began the game as if they meant business, with Messi firing an early shot which Lopes had to beat away for a corner. Lyon's Lopes had to be taken off injured later in the first half, leaving the field in tears after taking a blow to the face, with Mathieu Gorgelin replacing him and making his Champions League debut. Barca looked unsettled for a brief period after Tousart's goal had put Lyon one goal away from knocking the Catalans out, and the home side defended with an air of panic. But Messi soon eased their nerves, toying with Lyon's defence before releasing a shot too powerful for Gorgelin to stop. He continued to torment the visitors, gifting defender Pique a sliding tap-in with a beautiful pass and then setting up substitute Dembele. Barca reached the last eight of Europe's elite competition for the 12th consecutive season and will be Spain's only representatives in Friday's quarter-final draw. Lyon goalscorer Tousart had little complaint about the final result and said his side were powerless to deal with Messi. "We have to concede they were better than us. We weren’t up to the challenge and we were up against a great team, and in the end we were well beaten," he said. "There was no anti-Messi plan, and it's so difficult to defend against a player of his quality. He has instinctive talent." Lyon coach Bruno Genesio added: "Tonight Messi was in Champions League mode. He's a genius and can do things that nobody else can. Sometimes he is just unstoppable."

Champions League: Messi's double strike crushes Olympique Lyonnais; Barcelona reach quarter-finals

Who is better, Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo? Champions League will decide

Barcelona star player Lionel Messi praised Cristiano Ronaldo's "magical" performance for Juventus against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-messis-double-strike-crushes-olympique-lyonnais-barcelona-reach-quarter-finals-203189">helping Barcelona join the Italians in the Champions League quarter-finals.</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juventus-shares-soar-as-investors-cheer-cristiano-ronaldo-hat-trick-203091">Ronaldo had hit a hat trick as Juve to beat Atletico 3-2</a> on aggregate and book their place in the last eight.

"What Cristiano and Juventus did on Tuesday was impressive," Messi said reporters. "It was a big surprise. I thought Atletico would be a lot stronger, but Juve were all over them and Cristiano had a magical night," he added.

Meanwhile, Messi scored twice and adding two assists on Wednesday as Barcelona hammered Lyon 5-1 after drawing the first leg 0-0 in France last month.

Messi's Barca could potentially face Ronaldo's Juve in the last eight if the two sides are paired together in Friday's draw for the next round.&nbsp;

"We don't want to choose one [side] because they're all really tough," Messi said. "[Manchester] City, Juventus, Ajax, who have a great team of kids and don't fear anything, Liverpool, who've shown they pack a punch...

"We're relaxed and what we have to prepare for is the toughest test possible, which is what's coming now in the final stage of the season."

Messi opened the scoring against Lyon from the penalty spot before Philippe Coutinho doubled the home side's lead at Camp Nou before the break.&nbsp;

Barcelona star player Lionel Messi praised Cristiano Ronaldo's "magical" performance for Juventus against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, after helping Barcelona join the Italians in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Barcelona star player Lionel Messi praised Cristiano Ronaldo's "magical" performance for Juventus against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, after helping Barcelona join the Italians in the Champions League quarter-finals. Ronaldo had hit a hat trick as Juve to beat Atletico 3-2 on aggregate and book their place in the last eight. "What Cristiano and Juventus did on Tuesday was impressive," Messi said reporters. "It was a big surprise. I thought Atletico would be a lot stronger, but Juve were all over them and Cristiano had a magical night," he added. Meanwhile, Messi scored twice and adding two assists on Wednesday as Barcelona hammered Lyon 5-1 after drawing the first leg 0-0 in France last month. Messi's Barca could potentially face Ronaldo's Juve in the last eight if the two sides are paired together in Friday's draw for the next round. "We don't want to choose one [side] because they're all really tough," Messi said. "[Manchester] City, Juventus, Ajax, who have a great team of kids and don't fear anything, Liverpool, who've shown they pack a punch... "We're relaxed and what we have to prepare for is the toughest test possible, which is what's coming now in the final stage of the season." Messi opened the scoring against Lyon from the penalty spot before Philippe Coutinho doubled the home side's lead at Camp Nou before the break.

Lionel Messi hails Ronaldo's 'magical' night for Juventus after Barcelona win

Philippe Coutinho was booed off by his own fans after failing to shine against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday but Barcelona's record signing may get another chance to win them over this week with Ousmane Dembele set to miss their Champions League tie with Olympique Lyonnais.

Incisive winger Dembele helped Barca to a 3-1 win after coming off the bench with the team struggling to break down the La Liga minnows, with Coutinho failing to provide any spark or combine with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.

Fans showed their dissatisfaction with the Brazilian when he was replaced in the 80th minute by Ivan Rakitic, who promptly set up a goal for Suarez and helped secure a win that kept Barcelona seven points clear and bidding for a first treble since 2015.

A goalless draw in the first leg in Lyon means Barca have to win the second leg on Wednesday to ensure progress in the Champions League, but they will likely have to make do without the pace and unpredictability of Dembele, who ended the Rayo game with a hamstring strain.

Coutinho, who arrived from Liverpool for a club record 165 million euros ($185.18 million) in January 2018, has so far shown little to suggest he will be able to compensate for the Frenchman's absence against Lyon.

He has six goals and five assists in La Liga and Europe, while he has not scored outside of the Copa del Rey since October.

Defender Gerard Pique gave Coutinho his backing after he faced the wrath of the Nou Camp but also challenged him to raise his game.

"Philippe is having a good season, but obviously his price tag was very big and this means there are bigger expectations about his performances," Pique said.

"You have to accept the reaction of the supporters because they are our fans, but inside the dressing room the players give him all the support in the world."

Coach Ernesto Valverde also had words of support for Coutinho, even though he has tended to leave the player out of his starting line-up for the biggest games this season.

"We are at a club where there is a huge expectation to win, so we should not give too much importance to the fact he was booed," he said.

"He keeps fighting to score, and we always expect him to pull a rabbit out of the hat. But his work is plain to see, the secret is in persevering."

Philippe Coutinho was booed off by his own fans after failing to shine against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday but Barcelona's record signing may get another chance to win them over this week with Ousmane Dembele set to miss their Champions League tie with Olympique Lyonnais.

Philippe Coutinho was booed off by his own fans after failing to shine against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday but Barcelona's record signing may get another chance to win them over this week with Ousmane Dembele set to miss their Champions League tie with Olympique Lyonnais. Incisive winger Dembele helped Barca to a 3-1 win after coming off the bench with the team struggling to break down the La Liga minnows, with Coutinho failing to provide any spark or combine with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. Fans showed their dissatisfaction with the Brazilian when he was replaced in the 80th minute by Ivan Rakitic, who promptly set up a goal for Suarez and helped secure a win that kept Barcelona seven points clear and bidding for a first treble since 2015. A goalless draw in the first leg in Lyon means Barca have to win the second leg on Wednesday to ensure progress in the Champions League, but they will likely have to make do without the pace and unpredictability of Dembele, who ended the Rayo game with a hamstring strain. Coutinho, who arrived from Liverpool for a club record 165 million euros ($185.18 million) in January 2018, has so far shown little to suggest he will be able to compensate for the Frenchman's absence against Lyon. He has six goals and five assists in La Liga and Europe, while he has not scored outside of the Copa del Rey since October. Defender Gerard Pique gave Coutinho his backing after he faced the wrath of the Nou Camp but also challenged him to raise his game. "Philippe is having a good season, but obviously his price tag was very big and this means there are bigger expectations about his performances," Pique said. "You have to accept the reaction of the supporters because they are our fans, but inside the dressing room the players give him all the support in the world." Coach Ernesto Valverde also had words of support for Coutinho, even though he has tended to leave the player out of his starting line-up for the biggest games this season. "We are at a club where there is a huge expectation to win, so we should not give too much importance to the fact he was booed," he said. "He keeps fighting to score, and we always expect him to pull a rabbit out of the hat. But his work is plain to see, the secret is in persevering."

Ousmane Dembele injury may give Philippe Coutinho another chance to win over fans

Lionel Messi created a goal and scored another as Barcelona came from behind to beat struggling Rayo Vallecano 3-1 at home on Saturday and stay seven points clear at the top of La Liga.

Rayo, who have now lost their last 12 games against Barca, took a shock lead midway through the first half when forward Raul de Thomas -- who is on loan from Real Madrid -- ran past two defenders before arrowing a shot into the bottom corner.

The Madrid side's unlikely lead at the Nou Camp lasted a quarter of an hour and ended when Messi whipped in a free kick for Gerard Pique to appear unmarked and head home.

Barca won a penalty early in the second half when Luis Suarez was fouled and Messi converted to put the league leaders in front and the Uruguayan forward made sure of the points with a simple finish from close range in the 82nd minute.

Coach Ernesto Valverde started without Ousmane Dembele and Ivan Rakitic but fielded an otherwise first-choice starting 11 even with a Champions League last-16 second leg against Olympique Lyonnais coming up on Wednesday.

Record signing Philippe Coutinho started instead of Dembele but yet again failed to dovetail with Suarez and Messi in attack and missed the target with both chances which fell his way.

France international Dembele was introduced at the start of the second half for midfielder Arthur Melo and Barca immediately looked more incisive down the right hand side, from which Suarez earned the penalty that Messi converted.

Coutinho was taken off with 10 minutes remaining and received a smattering of boos from the Barca fans, and his replacement Rakitic had an instant impact, darting into the area to reach a pass and promptly laying it off to Suarez to score.

The win, which followed successive victories over Real Madrid in the league and Copa del Rey, restored Barca's seven-point gap over nearest challengers Atletico Madrid, who earned a 1-0 victory at home to Leganes.

Rayo are 19th in the standings and two points from escaping the drop zone as the pressure mounts on coach Michel.

"We have had a very tough run of games, in theory today's should have been easier but we know that these games are very difficult to play," Pique told reporters.

Barca coach Valverde also emphasised how tough the match was.

"The game was hard from the outset and became even harder, De Thomas scored a goal out of absolutely nothing," he said.

"I give a lot of value to every win, it's important to keep stringing together victories. We weren't able to take the lead which is what we should be looking to do but the positive thing is the team adapted very well."

Lionel Messi created a goal and scored another as Barcelona came from behind to beat struggling Rayo Vallecano 3-1 at home on Saturday and stay seven points clear at the top of La Liga.

Lionel Messi created a goal and scored another as Barcelona came from behind to beat struggling Rayo Vallecano 3-1 at home on Saturday and stay seven points clear at the top of La Liga. Rayo, who have now lost their last 12 games against Barca, took a shock lead midway through the first half when forward Raul de Thomas -- who is on loan from Real Madrid -- ran past two defenders before arrowing a shot into the bottom corner. The Madrid side's unlikely lead at the Nou Camp lasted a quarter of an hour and ended when Messi whipped in a free kick for Gerard Pique to appear unmarked and head home. Barca won a penalty early in the second half when Luis Suarez was fouled and Messi converted to put the league leaders in front and the Uruguayan forward made sure of the points with a simple finish from close range in the 82nd minute. Coach Ernesto Valverde started without Ousmane Dembele and Ivan Rakitic but fielded an otherwise first-choice starting 11 even with a Champions League last-16 second leg against Olympique Lyonnais coming up on Wednesday. Record signing Philippe Coutinho started instead of Dembele but yet again failed to dovetail with Suarez and Messi in attack and missed the target with both chances which fell his way. France international Dembele was introduced at the start of the second half for midfielder Arthur Melo and Barca immediately looked more incisive down the right hand side, from which Suarez earned the penalty that Messi converted. Coutinho was taken off with 10 minutes remaining and received a smattering of boos from the Barca fans, and his replacement Rakitic had an instant impact, darting into the area to reach a pass and promptly laying it off to Suarez to score. The win, which followed successive victories over Real Madrid in the league and Copa del Rey, restored Barca's seven-point gap over nearest challengers Atletico Madrid, who earned a 1-0 victory at home to Leganes. Rayo are 19th in the standings and two points from escaping the drop zone as the pressure mounts on coach Michel. "We have had a very tough run of games, in theory today's should have been easier but we know that these games are very difficult to play," Pique told reporters. Barca coach Valverde also emphasised how tough the match was. "The game was hard from the outset and became even harder, De Thomas scored a goal out of absolutely nothing," he said. "I give a lot of value to every win, it's important to keep stringing together victories. We weren't able to take the lead which is what we should be looking to do but the positive thing is the team adapted very well."

Lionel Messi shines as Barcelona beat Rayo Vallecano

Admired around the world over for the last decade as the great entertainers of European soccer, La Liga leaders Barcelona have quietly turned into masters of defending in recent weeks, led by steely centre half Gerard Pique.

The Catalans, who hold a seven-point lead over nearest challengers Atletico Madrid heading into Saturday's game at home to struggling Rayo Vallecano, have kept five clean sheets in their last six games, which bodes well for their title run in.

The 32-year-old, who is in his 11th year with Barca since returning to his boyhood club from Manchester United, has been at the forefront of this new found passion for defending.

Along with French defender Clement Lenglet, Pique was the hero of last week's 1-0 win over Real Madrid which opened up a 12-point gap between Barca and their historic rivals and followed a 3-0 win at Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-finals.

Barca were also watertight at the back in goalless draws with Athletic Bilbao and Olympique Lyonnais and a 1-0 win over Real Valladolid as their defence compensated for a short-lived dip in the form of strikers Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi.

Once regarded as too immature to become a true Barcelona great, Pique has become a wiser defender as his career has progressed and is no longer prone to the occasional lapses of concentration which he used to be criticised for.

If there is one concern about Pique, it is that playing every minute of the league campaign could catch up with him as the season enters its crucial stage and Barca battle to win a treble of La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League.

He has benefitted from retiring from the Spain team, however, now returning refreshed after international breaks while his team mates and counterparts have crossed continents representing their nations.

Being a defender in a team brimming with so much attacking quality and stardust has meant that Pique's contributions have often gone under the radar, although he now seems to be earning respect from all corners of Spanish soccer.

He has even come in for praise from the sections of the press that are usually hostile towards Barca, with newspaper Marca saying he was "on fire" and had "turned into royalty" after his two towering displays against Real.

Pique and his fellow defenders are unlikely to feel the same pressure on Saturday, though, with struggling Rayo having lost their last 11 meetings with Barca, conceding 50 goals in the process.

Atletico host fellow Madrid side Leganes on Saturday but will be without influential players Koke and Diego Godin through suspension.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, visit Real Valladolid after their shock elimination from the Champions League to Ajax, which all but ensured they will end the season without a trophy.

Admired around the world over for the last decade as the great entertainers of European soccer, La Liga leaders Barcelona have quietly turned into masters of defending in recent weeks, led by steely centre half Gerard Pique.

Admired around the world over for the last decade as the great entertainers of European soccer, La Liga leaders Barcelona have quietly turned into masters of defending in recent weeks, led by steely centre half Gerard Pique. The Catalans, who hold a seven-point lead over nearest challengers Atletico Madrid heading into Saturday's game at home to struggling Rayo Vallecano, have kept five clean sheets in their last six games, which bodes well for their title run in. The 32-year-old, who is in his 11th year with Barca since returning to his boyhood club from Manchester United, has been at the forefront of this new found passion for defending. Along with French defender Clement Lenglet, Pique was the hero of last week's 1-0 win over Real Madrid which opened up a 12-point gap between Barca and their historic rivals and followed a 3-0 win at Madrid in the Copa del Rey semi-finals. Barca were also watertight at the back in goalless draws with Athletic Bilbao and Olympique Lyonnais and a 1-0 win over Real Valladolid as their defence compensated for a short-lived dip in the form of strikers Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi. Once regarded as too immature to become a true Barcelona great, Pique has become a wiser defender as his career has progressed and is no longer prone to the occasional lapses of concentration which he used to be criticised for. If there is one concern about Pique, it is that playing every minute of the league campaign could catch up with him as the season enters its crucial stage and Barca battle to win a treble of La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League. He has benefitted from retiring from the Spain team, however, now returning refreshed after international breaks while his team mates and counterparts have crossed continents representing their nations. Being a defender in a team brimming with so much attacking quality and stardust has meant that Pique's contributions have often gone under the radar, although he now seems to be earning respect from all corners of Spanish soccer. He has even come in for praise from the sections of the press that are usually hostile towards Barca, with newspaper Marca saying he was "on fire" and had "turned into royalty" after his two towering displays against Real. Pique and his fellow defenders are unlikely to feel the same pressure on Saturday, though, with struggling Rayo having lost their last 11 meetings with Barca, conceding 50 goals in the process. Atletico host fellow Madrid side Leganes on Saturday but will be without influential players Koke and Diego Godin through suspension. Real Madrid, meanwhile, visit Real Valladolid after their shock elimination from the Champions League to Ajax, which all but ensured they will end the season without a trophy.

Gerard Pique behind Barcelona's new found defensive steel

Barcelona&nbsp;won their second Clasico in four days on Saturday and Real Madrid might have to win the Champions League if Santiago Solari is to be in charge for the next one.

After knocking them out of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, Barca returned to the Santiago Bernabeu for a 1-0 victory that surely eliminates their greatest rivals from the title race too.

Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos locked heads after Ramos flung an arm into Messi's face but, despite the scoreline and a few half-chances, that was about the most trouble Madrid caused.&nbsp;

Messi would have been proud of Ivan Rakitic's delightful chip, a rare moment of precision that in the end settled another Clasico high on vigour but lacking in either real quality or rhythm.&nbsp;

"What we wanted was to deliver our best and to inflict damage on our rival," Barca coach Ernesto Valverde said. "We have done that."

The onus was on Madrid, not only to make amends for their defeat in midweek but to reduce the nine-point gap between them and La Liga's leaders.

Instead,&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;extended it to 12 and the way their players jumped up and down in front of the away fans after the final whistle suggested they felt this was a major hurdle overcome.

Barcelona&nbsp;also now own 96 victories in this fixture to Real Madrid's 95, the first time they have been in front in 87 years.

When Solari took over in November, his team were seven points adrift of the Catalans and the fact the deficit has almost doubled since might not reflect the improvement in performances.&nbsp;

But this was the first time Madrid have lost three in a row at home in 15 years and these are surely the matches president Florentino Perez will remember when he considers his coach's future next summer.

"You go through spells, sometimes everything goes for you and sometimes it doesn't," said Solari. "In these two games it hasn't."&nbsp;

All that realistically remains now is the Champions League, in which Madrid will carry a 2-1 lead into Tuesday's second leg at home to Ajax.

Europe has rescued them before and it also revived Gareth Bale, who endured another frustrating night on only his third start in 10 games.&nbsp;

Bale was largely anonymous again and when substituted in the second half, he departed not just to a scattering of whistles from the home crowd but a chorus.

"He tried, like the rest of the players," said Solari.

It took Busquets 89 seconds to be booked and only a few more for Bale to send the free-kick over the bar but Madrid started with purpose, like a team determined to right the wrongs of before.

Madrid fade

Their early impetus faded though as Barca, driven on by Messi, took control. Messi skipped through three players in midfield and was furious with Ousmane Dembele when he missed his late run into the box.

He then weaved in behind with the help of a Luis Suarez touch but, to everyone's surprise, the trademark lifted finish floated wide.

Rakitic showed him how to do it. He played the ball wide to Sergi Roberto, continued his run behind Ramos and received it back, before feathering a delightful chip over Thibaut Courtois.

Barca were comfortable but the game erupted on the stroke of half-time. Ramos won the ball from Messi but, with his arm outstretched, left it long enough to catch his opponent in the face. Messi pointed to his lip and then butted heads with Ramos but referee Alberto Mallenco saw nothing worthy of punishment.

Madrid pushed for an equaliser but their desperation showed. Benzema failed to connect while Vinicius Juniors' rushed shot was blocked.&nbsp;

Bale was hauled off just after the hour, replaced by Marco Asensio, and even Isco came on in the 76th minute, for his longest appearance since the end of January.&nbsp;

Raphael Varane might have snatched a late equaliser but his header was weak.&nbsp;Barcelona&nbsp;were left celebrating again.

Barcelona won their second Clasico in four days on Saturday and Real Madrid might have to win the Champions League if Santiago Solari is to be in charge for the next one.

Barcelona won their second Clasico in four days on Saturday and Real Madrid might have to win the Champions League if Santiago Solari is to be in charge for the next one. After knocking them out of the Copa del Rey on Wednesday, Barca returned to the Santiago Bernabeu for a 1-0 victory that surely eliminates their greatest rivals from the title race too. Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos locked heads after Ramos flung an arm into Messi's face but, despite the scoreline and a few half-chances, that was about the most trouble Madrid caused. Messi would have been proud of Ivan Rakitic's delightful chip, a rare moment of precision that in the end settled another Clasico high on vigour but lacking in either real quality or rhythm. "What we wanted was to deliver our best and to inflict damage on our rival," Barca coach Ernesto Valverde said. "We have done that." The onus was on Madrid, not only to make amends for their defeat in midweek but to reduce the nine-point gap between them and La Liga's leaders. Instead, Barcelona extended it to 12 and the way their players jumped up and down in front of the away fans after the final whistle suggested they felt this was a major hurdle overcome. Barcelona also now own 96 victories in this fixture to Real Madrid's 95, the first time they have been in front in 87 years. When Solari took over in November, his team were seven points adrift of the Catalans and the fact the deficit has almost doubled since might not reflect the improvement in performances. But this was the first time Madrid have lost three in a row at home in 15 years and these are surely the matches president Florentino Perez will remember when he considers his coach's future next summer. "You go through spells, sometimes everything goes for you and sometimes it doesn't," said Solari. "In these two games it hasn't." All that realistically remains now is the Champions League, in which Madrid will carry a 2-1 lead into Tuesday's second leg at home to Ajax. Europe has rescued them before and it also revived Gareth Bale, who endured another frustrating night on only his third start in 10 games. Bale was largely anonymous again and when substituted in the second half, he departed not just to a scattering of whistles from the home crowd but a chorus. "He tried, like the rest of the players," said Solari. It took Busquets 89 seconds to be booked and only a few more for Bale to send the free-kick over the bar but Madrid started with purpose, like a team determined to right the wrongs of before. Madrid fade Their early impetus faded though as Barca, driven on by Messi, took control. Messi skipped through three players in midfield and was furious with Ousmane Dembele when he missed his late run into the box. He then weaved in behind with the help of a Luis Suarez touch but, to everyone's surprise, the trademark lifted finish floated wide. Rakitic showed him how to do it. He played the ball wide to Sergi Roberto, continued his run behind Ramos and received it back, before feathering a delightful chip over Thibaut Courtois. Barca were comfortable but the game erupted on the stroke of half-time. Ramos won the ball from Messi but, with his arm outstretched, left it long enough to catch his opponent in the face. Messi pointed to his lip and then butted heads with Ramos but referee Alberto Mallenco saw nothing worthy of punishment. Madrid pushed for an equaliser but their desperation showed. Benzema failed to connect while Vinicius Juniors' rushed shot was blocked. Bale was hauled off just after the hour, replaced by Marco Asensio, and even Isco came on in the 76th minute, for his longest appearance since the end of January. Raphael Varane might have snatched a late equaliser but his header was weak. Barcelona were left celebrating again.

Barcelona beat Real Madrid to edge closer to La Liga title

Jose Mourinho accused Real Madrid of lacking fight and looking unhappy against Barcelona on Saturday, just as the pressure cranked up on coach Santiago Solari after a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-beat-real-madrid-to-edge-closer-to-la-liga-title-200860">second successive Clasico defeat</a>.&nbsp;

Mourinho has been among those mentioned as a possible replacement for Solari, as Madrid have been knocked out of both the Copa del Rey and, realistically, La Liga's title race within four days.&nbsp;

The fact that both losses came at the hands of Barca, and at the Santiago Bernabeu, compounds the misery.&nbsp;

After losing 3-0 in the cup on Wednesday, Madrid were inferior again in the rematch, as Ivan Rakitic's delightful chip earned Barcelona a 1-0 win.&nbsp;

"I think it was not a happy performance," Mourinho said as a pundit for bEIN Sports. "It was not the performance of a happy team, of a team with great belief and self-esteem.&nbsp;

"Clearly they are now in a zone after a few bad results, especially after the cup match, where they are in a low. They couldn't bring to the game what I used to call the temperature of the big matches. They were passive.&nbsp;

"I cannot speak about a bad performance, it is just a soft performance. Sometimes you play like this against medium teams and in the end, you get a positive result, but against the top teams you have to do a lot more than this if you want to win."&nbsp;

Former Real Madrid president Roman Calderon has claimed Mourinho will take over in the summer.

"I'm pretty sure he has general information about the club of his passion," Mourinho said. "But he knows more than me because I know absolutely nothing about it at all."&nbsp;

'We will fight for it'

Mourinho also said it was "very flattering" to hear Spanish Football Federation president Javier Tebas saying last month La Liga missed coaches like him and Pep Guardiola.&nbsp;

Many will see Mourinho's comments as conveniently timed given Solari now appears particularly vulnerable.&nbsp;

When Solari took charge in November, Madrid were seven points behind Barcelona but that gap now stands at 12. They have also lost three consecutive games at home for the first time in 15 years.&nbsp;

"Football is about being clinical and they were much more clinical," said captain Sergio Ramos. "It is true with the consistency Barca are showing, they have increased the gap on us again and taken another important step towards winning the league."&nbsp;

Madrid's season, and perhaps Solari's future, will again depend on them winning the Champions League. They carry a 2-1 lead into the second leg at home to Ajax on Tuesday.

"We need the league for fitness and rhythm so we must continue working and keep winning games," Ramos said. "We have another final in the Champions League on Tuesday and we will fight for it. In the league we will try to reduce the gap."&nbsp;

Jose Mourinho accused Real Madrid of lacking fight and looking unhappy against Barcelona on Saturday, just as the pressure cranked up on coach Santiago Solari after a second successive Clasico defeat.

Jose Mourinho accused Real Madrid of lacking fight and looking unhappy against Barcelona on Saturday, just as the pressure cranked up on coach Santiago Solari after a second successive Clasico defeat. Mourinho has been among those mentioned as a possible replacement for Solari, as Madrid have been knocked out of both the Copa del Rey and, realistically, La Liga's title race within four days. The fact that both losses came at the hands of Barca, and at the Santiago Bernabeu, compounds the misery. After losing 3-0 in the cup on Wednesday, Madrid were inferior again in the rematch, as Ivan Rakitic's delightful chip earned Barcelona a 1-0 win. "I think it was not a happy performance," Mourinho said as a pundit for bEIN Sports. "It was not the performance of a happy team, of a team with great belief and self-esteem. "Clearly they are now in a zone after a few bad results, especially after the cup match, where they are in a low. They couldn't bring to the game what I used to call the temperature of the big matches. They were passive. "I cannot speak about a bad performance, it is just a soft performance. Sometimes you play like this against medium teams and in the end, you get a positive result, but against the top teams you have to do a lot more than this if you want to win." Former Real Madrid president Roman Calderon has claimed Mourinho will take over in the summer. "I'm pretty sure he has general information about the club of his passion," Mourinho said. "But he knows more than me because I know absolutely nothing about it at all." 'We will fight for it' Mourinho also said it was "very flattering" to hear Spanish Football Federation president Javier Tebas saying last month La Liga missed coaches like him and Pep Guardiola. Many will see Mourinho's comments as conveniently timed given Solari now appears particularly vulnerable. When Solari took charge in November, Madrid were seven points behind Barcelona but that gap now stands at 12. They have also lost three consecutive games at home for the first time in 15 years. "Football is about being clinical and they were much more clinical," said captain Sergio Ramos. "It is true with the consistency Barca are showing, they have increased the gap on us again and taken another important step towards winning the league." Madrid's season, and perhaps Solari's future, will again depend on them winning the Champions League. They carry a 2-1 lead into the second leg at home to Ajax on Tuesday. "We need the league for fitness and rhythm so we must continue working and keep winning games," Ramos said. "We have another final in the Champions League on Tuesday and we will fight for it. In the league we will try to reduce the gap."

Unhappy Real Madrid were too soft against Barcelona: Jose Mourinho

Barcelona <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-beat-real-madrid-to-edge-closer-to-la-liga-title-200860">defeated their biggest rival Real Madrid</a>&nbsp;at Bernabeu 1-0 on Saturday to extend their La Liga lead over them to 12 points.&nbsp;

Ivan Rakitic scored in the first half to give Barca a delightful win but despite the victory, Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde said that Real Madrid cannot be ruled out of the title race.&nbsp;

While addressing the media, Valverde said, "There's a world ahead of us. Not only because we know that Real Madrid are capable of winning many matches in a row, but also because Atletico Madrid are there."&nbsp;

"We respect our rivals like our rivals respect us. And as long as maths don't say that it's over, we have to keep fighting."&nbsp;

"When there are so many games left, it's absurd to indulge in this kind of thoughts, because the moment you start thinking this way, that's the moment you start losing," he added.&nbsp;

Barcelona now own 96 victories in this fixture to Real Madrid's 95, the first time they have been in front in 87 years.&nbsp;

Barcelona defeated their biggest rival Real Madrid at Bernabeu 1-0 on Saturday to extend their La Liga lead over them to 12 points. Ivan Rakitic scored in the first half to give Barca a delightful win but despite the victory, Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde said that Real Madrid cannot be ruled out of the title race.

Barcelona defeated their biggest rival Real Madrid at Bernabeu 1-0 on Saturday to extend their La Liga lead over them to 12 points. Ivan Rakitic scored in the first half to give Barca a delightful win but despite the victory, Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde said that Real Madrid cannot be ruled out of the title race. While addressing the media, Valverde said, "There's a world ahead of us. Not only because we know that Real Madrid are capable of winning many matches in a row, but also because Atletico Madrid are there." "We respect our rivals like our rivals respect us. And as long as maths don't say that it's over, we have to keep fighting." "When there are so many games left, it's absurd to indulge in this kind of thoughts, because the moment you start thinking this way, that's the moment you start losing," he added. Barcelona now own 96 victories in this fixture to Real Madrid's 95, the first time they have been in front in 87 years.

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde still refuses to write Real Madrid off from title race

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde said that club's "priority is winning La Liga" because it gives you the sense of being consistent throughout the whole season.&nbsp;

While addressing press conference ahead of the El Classico, Valverde said, "We are leaders of La Liga but there is still a long way to go, including many tough matches. You can only think of winning two trophies, once you have won one."

He also mentioned that Barca need to ensure Lionel Messi is more involved in Saturday's match against Real Madrid than he was in Wednesday's Copa del Rey semi-final second leg victory over the Catalans' arch-rivals.&nbsp;

"You always expect a lot of your players, Messi included. He always performs, even though at times he performs less than others. We have to play well in order for him to perform," said Valverde.&nbsp;

Barcelona will aim to record their second 'El Clasico' victory at the Santiago Bernabeu in the space of three days.&nbsp;

A Barcelona win would move them 12 points clear of their fierce rivals at the summit, and 10 ahead of Atletico Madrid who visit Real Sociedad on Sunday.&nbsp;

The coach gave an honest assessment of the previous meeting, in which Barca had only four shots to Real's 14. "It's true that the other day there were spells when we did not play well, they kept arriving in our area and looked dangerous and we only created two or three chances. The aim is always to improve and create more chances," he told journalists.&nbsp;

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde said that club's "priority is winning La Liga" because it gives you the sense of being consistent throughout the whole season. While addressing press conference ahead of the El Classico, Valverde said, "We are leaders of La Liga but there is still a long way to go, including many tough matches.

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde said that club's "priority is winning La Liga" because it gives you the sense of being consistent throughout the whole season. While addressing press conference ahead of the El Classico, Valverde said, "We are leaders of La Liga but there is still a long way to go, including many tough matches. You can only think of winning two trophies, once you have won one." He also mentioned that Barca need to ensure Lionel Messi is more involved in Saturday's match against Real Madrid than he was in Wednesday's Copa del Rey semi-final second leg victory over the Catalans' arch-rivals. "You always expect a lot of your players, Messi included. He always performs, even though at times he performs less than others. We have to play well in order for him to perform," said Valverde. Barcelona will aim to record their second 'El Clasico' victory at the Santiago Bernabeu in the space of three days. A Barcelona win would move them 12 points clear of their fierce rivals at the summit, and 10 ahead of Atletico Madrid who visit Real Sociedad on Sunday. The coach gave an honest assessment of the previous meeting, in which Barca had only four shots to Real's 14. "It's true that the other day there were spells when we did not play well, they kept arriving in our area and looked dangerous and we only created two or three chances. The aim is always to improve and create more chances," he told journalists.

'Winning La Liga is priority', says Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde

Real Madrid coach Santiago Solari said on Friday (March 1) his side are back on their feet after losing to Barca in the King's Cup and ready to claim the three points in the upcoming Clasico.

Real's 3-0 defeat to Barca on Wednesday (February 27) saw them exit the competition 4-1 on aggregate.

Addressing reporters in Madrid, Solari insisted the team was doing "fine".

"Of course the other day we put all our effort in, we wanted to be in the final. We gave our best in the competition overall and in the last match. But that is it," he said.

"We are now back on our feet, thinking of tomorrow's game which is a different competition, the league. It is El Clasico once again and we are very focused and looking forward to it," Solari added.

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr delivered one of the best performances of his young career in Wednesday's match but missed a slew of chances to score.

The 18-year-old has come a long way but has room to improve, Solari told reporters.

"Beyond his youth and his freshness and his profundity, his skill, creativity, sacrifice, his will to learn, the way he bears the weight, the pressure. So many things in such short time. I want to look at that. Of course it is his job and the job of those around him to make him improve," he said.

Solari also continued to play down any talk of a rift with Gareth Bale, saying that fans were aware of the Welshman's contributions to the team.

Madrid will host the La Liga leaders Barca again on Saturday (March 2) in what is their last realistic attempt to get back into the title race, as they currently sit third, nine points adrift of the Catalans.

Real Madrid coach Santiago Solari said on Friday (March 1) his side are back on their feet after losing to Barca in the King's Cup and ready to claim the three points in the upcoming Clasico.

Real Madrid coach Santiago Solari said on Friday (March 1) his side are back on their feet after losing to Barca in the King's Cup and ready to claim the three points in the upcoming Clasico. Real's 3-0 defeat to Barca on Wednesday (February 27) saw them exit the competition 4-1 on aggregate. Addressing reporters in Madrid, Solari insisted the team was doing "fine". "Of course the other day we put all our effort in, we wanted to be in the final. We gave our best in the competition overall and in the last match. But that is it," he said. "We are now back on our feet, thinking of tomorrow's game which is a different competition, the league. It is El Clasico once again and we are very focused and looking forward to it," Solari added. Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr delivered one of the best performances of his young career in Wednesday's match but missed a slew of chances to score. The 18-year-old has come a long way but has room to improve, Solari told reporters. "Beyond his youth and his freshness and his profundity, his skill, creativity, sacrifice, his will to learn, the way he bears the weight, the pressure. So many things in such short time. I want to look at that. Of course it is his job and the job of those around him to make him improve," he said. Solari also continued to play down any talk of a rift with Gareth Bale, saying that fans were aware of the Welshman's contributions to the team. Madrid will host the La Liga leaders Barca again on Saturday (March 2) in what is their last realistic attempt to get back into the title race, as they currently sit third, nine points adrift of the Catalans.

Real Madrid back on their feet for El Clasico

A clinical Barcelona won 3-0 at Real Madrid in an intense second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final on Wednesday as a Luis Suarez double helped them secure a 4-1 aggregate victory and a spot in the final for the sixth straight season.

A dominant yet wasteful Real ravaged their rivals in the first half while spurning a string of clear chances at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Yet Barca went ahead against the run of play in the 50th minute as Ousmane Dembele led a counter-attack and Suarez slotted his pass into the net.

Spearheaded by the pace and confidence of Brazilian teenager Vinicius Jr, Madrid continued to fly forward but failed to find the target.

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🔵🔴 This is becoming something of a habit ... And a very nice one too! <a href="https://t.co/uXLg07jjoj">https://t.co/uXLg07jjoj</a>
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Barca effectively killed off the tie when Raphael Varane bundled the ball into his own net as he tried to prevent Suarez reaching another cross from Dembele.

Suarez then earned a penalty and further humiliated Madrid by converting with an audacious 'Panenka', deceiving goalkeeper Keylor Navas by chipping the ball into the net.

Barca, who lost first leg games to Levante and Sevilla in the Cup and drew 1-1 with Madrid in the first leg of the semi-final, booked their place in the final at the Benito Villamarin stadium, the home of Real Betis, on May 25.

Bidding to win the trophy for a record fifth year in a row, the Catalans will face either Betis or Valencia, who drew 2-2 in the first leg of their semi-final and meet again on Thursday.

"This is another demonstration of how good this team is. People keep saying that we don't care about the Cup, but we have shown that we always want to win every single trophy," Suarez told reporters.

Numerous Chances

Real coach Santiago Solari stressed his side's dominance in the game but cursed their inability to take their numerous chances.

"In football, you have to be efficient and take the chances you get," he said.

"We fell with honour, we could do no more. We were not clinical but they were, and we go home feeling hurt because we really wanted to reach the final."

Worst of all for Madrid, La Liga leaders Barca will be back at the Bernabeu once again on Saturday for a league fixture which, should they win again, would see them move 12 points clear of their arch-rivals.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde attempted to neutralise the threat of Vinicius by deploying right-sided defenders Sergi Roberto and Nelson Semedo to protect the left flank but the Brazilian was still the most dangerous player in the first half.

Vinicius could have won a penalty when Semedo clattered into him and had three clear chances to score before the interval, failing to hit the target twice from inside the area, and being thwarted by Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.

He continued to dance his way through Barca's defence after the break but his final touch let him down.

Shortly after Suarez's opener, he cut into the box and delivered a cross which Sergio Reguilon met with a diving header, but Ter Stegen flew across his goal to repel the effort.

Madrid, who were also beaten 3-0 by Barca at the Bernabeu in La Liga last season and were thrashed 5-1 by their rivals back in October, lost their heads after that chance and there was no coming back following Varane's own goal.

Barca seemed to relish their role as Real's tormentors and Suarez took the ball from usual penalty taker Lionel Messi to complete their fourth victory in five visits to the Bernabeu with an ice-cool finish from the spot.

A clinical Barcelona won 3-0 at Real Madrid in an intense second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final on Wednesday as a Luis Suarez double helped them secure a 4-1 aggregate victory and a spot in the final for the sixth straight season.

A clinical Barcelona won 3-0 at Real Madrid in an intense second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final on Wednesday as a Luis Suarez double helped them secure a 4-1 aggregate victory and a spot in the final for the sixth straight season. A dominant yet wasteful Real ravaged their rivals in the first half while spurning a string of clear chances at the Santiago Bernabeu. Yet Barca went ahead against the run of play in the 50th minute as Ousmane Dembele led a counter-attack and Suarez slotted his pass into the net. Spearheaded by the pace and confidence of Brazilian teenager Vinicius Jr, Madrid continued to fly forward but failed to find the target. 🔵🔴 This is becoming something of a habit ... And a very nice one too! https://t.co/uXLg07jjoj — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 28, 2019 × Barca effectively killed off the tie when Raphael Varane bundled the ball into his own net as he tried to prevent Suarez reaching another cross from Dembele. Suarez then earned a penalty and further humiliated Madrid by converting with an audacious 'Panenka', deceiving goalkeeper Keylor Navas by chipping the ball into the net. Barca, who lost first leg games to Levante and Sevilla in the Cup and drew 1-1 with Madrid in the first leg of the semi-final, booked their place in the final at the Benito Villamarin stadium, the home of Real Betis, on May 25. Bidding to win the trophy for a record fifth year in a row, the Catalans will face either Betis or Valencia, who drew 2-2 in the first leg of their semi-final and meet again on Thursday. "This is another demonstration of how good this team is. People keep saying that we don't care about the Cup, but we have shown that we always want to win every single trophy," Suarez told reporters. Numerous Chances Real coach Santiago Solari stressed his side's dominance in the game but cursed their inability to take their numerous chances. "In football, you have to be efficient and take the chances you get," he said. "We fell with honour, we could do no more. We were not clinical but they were, and we go home feeling hurt because we really wanted to reach the final." Worst of all for Madrid, La Liga leaders Barca will be back at the Bernabeu once again on Saturday for a league fixture which, should they win again, would see them move 12 points clear of their arch-rivals. Barca coach Ernesto Valverde attempted to neutralise the threat of Vinicius by deploying right-sided defenders Sergi Roberto and Nelson Semedo to protect the left flank but the Brazilian was still the most dangerous player in the first half. Vinicius could have won a penalty when Semedo clattered into him and had three clear chances to score before the interval, failing to hit the target twice from inside the area, and being thwarted by Marc-Andre Ter Stegen. He continued to dance his way through Barca's defence after the break but his final touch let him down. Shortly after Suarez's opener, he cut into the box and delivered a cross which Sergio Reguilon met with a diving header, but Ter Stegen flew across his goal to repel the effort. Madrid, who were also beaten 3-0 by Barca at the Bernabeu in La Liga last season and were thrashed 5-1 by their rivals back in October, lost their heads after that chance and there was no coming back following Varane's own goal. Barca seemed to relish their role as Real's tormentors and Suarez took the ball from usual penalty taker Lionel Messi to complete their fourth victory in five visits to the Bernabeu with an ice-cool finish from the spot.

Copa del Rey: Luis Suarez double downs Real Madrid to send Barcelona into final

An action-packed weekend in La Liga saw Lionel Messi put on yet another masterclass as Barcelona beat Sevilla in a thriller, while there was VAR controversy as Real Madrid limped past Levante thanks to two penalty calls.

Here are five talking points from the weekend's action in Spain.

REAL BENEFIT FROM VAR

The implementation of the video assistant referee (VAR) in La Liga this season has not been without controversy. Real had been critical of the system previously, but they are unlikely to have complaints now after two big decisions went their way.

While there could be little debate about the first – a handball by Enis Bardhi – the second provoked a spot kick that even Madrid-based sports newspaper AS described as 'dubious' on their front page.

Casemiro theatrically tumbled as Levante defender Cheick Doukoure swung at the ball. Replays appeared to show that the Ivorian had not made contact with the Real midfielder, but the VAR panel did not agree there was enough evidence to overturn the decision to award a penalty.

BALE SULK

Substitute Gareth Bale duly tucked away the controversial penalty, however made a point of refusing to celebrate the goal, shrugging off the advances of team mates before heading back to the centre circle.

Many speculate that the Welshman was making a point of showing his dissatisfaction at being named on the bench for the club's past two league games by coach Santiago Solari, who attempted to play down the incident after the 2-1 victory.

Local media have been quick to criticise Bale's actions and Solari now faces a big decision regarding his team selection with back-to-back Clasico fixtures against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday and La Liga next weekend.

MESSI MASTERCLASS

Sevilla must wonder what they have done to provoke Lionel Messi. The Argentine has put in some mesmerizing displays across his career, however the Andalusian outfit are his favourite victims.

Before Saturday's clash he had scored 33 times in 36 appearances against Sevilla. True to form, the Argentine netted a stunning hat-trick and provided an assist to help his side come from behind twice in a 4-2 win to keep their seven point cushion at the top of the table.

MORATA FINALLY GETS UNDERWAY

Since joining Atletico Madrid in the January transfer window, forward Alvaro Morata has seen two stunning strikes ruled out by VAR, leading some commentators to question whether his return to his boyhood club was doomed.

However, there was no taking his first goal for Atleti away from him on Sunday as he buried a sweetly struck left-footed volley into the bottom corner.

The Spain international celebrated ironically by making the referee's VAR signal much to the delight of the home crowd, who witnessed their side secure a first victory over Villarreal in eight attempts, dating back to 2015.

FAMILIAR TALE FOR VALENCIA

Marcelino's Valencia have greatly frustrated their fans throughout this campaign, and never more so than on Sunday. Away to Leganes, they took an early lead and looked comfortable, only to concede an 89th minute equaliser and go on to draw the game.

Remarkably, it was Valencia's 15th draw in 25 league matches this season. They have only lost four times – three fewer than third-placed Real Madrid. However, their inability to win games has seen them slip six points off the pace in the battle for the fourth and final Champions League spot.

An action-packed weekend in La Liga saw Lionel Messi put on yet another masterclass as Barcelona beat Sevilla in a thriller, while there was VAR controversy as Real Madrid limped past Levante thanks to two penalty calls.

An action-packed weekend in La Liga saw Lionel Messi put on yet another masterclass as Barcelona beat Sevilla in a thriller, while there was VAR controversy as Real Madrid limped past Levante thanks to two penalty calls. Here are five talking points from the weekend's action in Spain. REAL BENEFIT FROM VAR The implementation of the video assistant referee (VAR) in La Liga this season has not been without controversy. Real had been critical of the system previously, but they are unlikely to have complaints now after two big decisions went their way. While there could be little debate about the first – a handball by Enis Bardhi – the second provoked a spot kick that even Madrid-based sports newspaper AS described as 'dubious' on their front page. Casemiro theatrically tumbled as Levante defender Cheick Doukoure swung at the ball. Replays appeared to show that the Ivorian had not made contact with the Real midfielder, but the VAR panel did not agree there was enough evidence to overturn the decision to award a penalty. BALE SULK Substitute Gareth Bale duly tucked away the controversial penalty, however made a point of refusing to celebrate the goal, shrugging off the advances of team mates before heading back to the centre circle. Many speculate that the Welshman was making a point of showing his dissatisfaction at being named on the bench for the club's past two league games by coach Santiago Solari, who attempted to play down the incident after the 2-1 victory. Local media have been quick to criticise Bale's actions and Solari now faces a big decision regarding his team selection with back-to-back Clasico fixtures against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday and La Liga next weekend. MESSI MASTERCLASS Sevilla must wonder what they have done to provoke Lionel Messi. The Argentine has put in some mesmerizing displays across his career, however the Andalusian outfit are his favourite victims. Before Saturday's clash he had scored 33 times in 36 appearances against Sevilla. True to form, the Argentine netted a stunning hat-trick and provided an assist to help his side come from behind twice in a 4-2 win to keep their seven point cushion at the top of the table. MORATA FINALLY GETS UNDERWAY Since joining Atletico Madrid in the January transfer window, forward Alvaro Morata has seen two stunning strikes ruled out by VAR, leading some commentators to question whether his return to his boyhood club was doomed. However, there was no taking his first goal for Atleti away from him on Sunday as he buried a sweetly struck left-footed volley into the bottom corner. The Spain international celebrated ironically by making the referee's VAR signal much to the delight of the home crowd, who witnessed their side secure a first victory over Villarreal in eight attempts, dating back to 2015. FAMILIAR TALE FOR VALENCIA Marcelino's Valencia have greatly frustrated their fans throughout this campaign, and never more so than on Sunday. Away to Leganes, they took an early lead and looked comfortable, only to concede an 89th minute equaliser and go on to draw the game. Remarkably, it was Valencia's 15th draw in 25 league matches this season. They have only lost four times – three fewer than third-placed Real Madrid. However, their inability to win games has seen them slip six points off the pace in the battle for the fourth and final Champions League spot.

Five talking points from the weekend in La Liga

Lionel Messi hit a sumptuous hat-trick, the 50th of his career, to inspire Barcelona to a 4-2 victory over Sevilla on Saturday and take them one step closer to winning La Liga.

Messi was supposed to be lacking fitness and Barca struggling for form but both delivered a resounding response at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, with two matches against Real Madrid just around the corner.

After scoring 11 goals in nine games, Messi's thigh strain had coincided with a dip by his own high standards, one goal in four prompting concerns that he was being pushed too far.

But the Argentinian was back to his scintillating best, this was his 44th treble for Barcelona, now the joint most for a Spanish club alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, rounded off by a trademark chip late on.&nbsp;

Luis Suarez needed a goal too after a disappointing performance against Lyon in midweek and he wrapped up the perfect afternoon by adding a fourth after Jesus Navas and Gabriel Mercado had twice put Sevilla ahead in the first half.&nbsp;

Sevilla's top-four hopes look increasingly uncertain but for Barcelona, this was one of the toughest tests left in their run-in, with perhaps the most difficult to come next weekend, against Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.&nbsp;

Real, who face Levante on Sunday, sit 12 points behind Barca and their best hope of a domestic trophy is surely now in beating them first on Wednesday in the Copa del Rey.

As well as a return to form for Messi and Suarez, there was a return to the team for Samuel Umtiti, the defender handed his first appearance in three months after recovering from a knee injury.&nbsp;

It was given an early test as Wissam Ben Yedder twisted him one way and then the other but Umtiti was quick on his feet and did well to make the block.&nbsp;

Sevilla had started at a furious pace and it was the speedy Navas that scored first, sprinting almost 78 metres to meet the end of a slick counter-attack.&nbsp;

Messi lost the ball and Ben Yedder set off through the centre, teeing up Navas on the right to find the far corner.&nbsp;

Messi soon made amends. Ivan Rakitic sent over a dangling cross, which he volleyed sweetly past Tomas Vaclik with his left foot.&nbsp;

The ball was flying from one end to the other as Umtiti stopped the lively Pablo Sarabia and Gerard Pique's blistering break forward was halted by his opposite number three, Sergi Gomez.&nbsp;

Sevilla scored next, just before half-time, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen's underhit clearance allowing Sarabia to scuttle down the right. He flicked the ball off the goal line and back to Mercado, who steered it into the net.&nbsp;

Ousmane Dembele came on and should have equalised, fluffing his finish after a cross from Suarez, who should have had a penalty when Simon Kjaer caught him late.

Messi provided the finishing touch. Again it came from the goalkeeper, Vaclik's punt falling straight to Rakitic. Dembele pulled back for Messi, who took one touch and curled it, this time right-footed, into the top corner.&nbsp;

Sevilla looked dead on their feet, their early intensity draining away, and Messi landed the knock-out blow. There was a hint of fortune as Carles Alena's shot deflected neatly into his path. Vaclik came out but Messi scooped it over his body and in.&nbsp;

Three times a scorer, there was still time for an assist. Messi chested and poked the ball through for Suarez, who lobbied to make it four.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi hit a sumptuous hat-trick, the 50th of his career, to inspire Barcelona to a 4-2 victory over Sevilla on Saturday and take them one step closer to winning La Liga.

Lionel Messi hit a sumptuous hat-trick, the 50th of his career, to inspire Barcelona to a 4-2 victory over Sevilla on Saturday and take them one step closer to winning La Liga. Messi was supposed to be lacking fitness and Barca struggling for form but both delivered a resounding response at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, with two matches against Real Madrid just around the corner. After scoring 11 goals in nine games, Messi's thigh strain had coincided with a dip by his own high standards, one goal in four prompting concerns that he was being pushed too far. But the Argentinian was back to his scintillating best, this was his 44th treble for Barcelona, now the joint most for a Spanish club alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, rounded off by a trademark chip late on. Luis Suarez needed a goal too after a disappointing performance against Lyon in midweek and he wrapped up the perfect afternoon by adding a fourth after Jesus Navas and Gabriel Mercado had twice put Sevilla ahead in the first half. Sevilla's top-four hopes look increasingly uncertain but for Barcelona, this was one of the toughest tests left in their run-in, with perhaps the most difficult to come next weekend, against Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu. Real, who face Levante on Sunday, sit 12 points behind Barca and their best hope of a domestic trophy is surely now in beating them first on Wednesday in the Copa del Rey. As well as a return to form for Messi and Suarez, there was a return to the team for Samuel Umtiti, the defender handed his first appearance in three months after recovering from a knee injury. It was given an early test as Wissam Ben Yedder twisted him one way and then the other but Umtiti was quick on his feet and did well to make the block. Sevilla had started at a furious pace and it was the speedy Navas that scored first, sprinting almost 78 metres to meet the end of a slick counter-attack. Messi lost the ball and Ben Yedder set off through the centre, teeing up Navas on the right to find the far corner. Messi soon made amends. Ivan Rakitic sent over a dangling cross, which he volleyed sweetly past Tomas Vaclik with his left foot. The ball was flying from one end to the other as Umtiti stopped the lively Pablo Sarabia and Gerard Pique's blistering break forward was halted by his opposite number three, Sergi Gomez. Sevilla scored next, just before half-time, with Marc-Andre ter Stegen's underhit clearance allowing Sarabia to scuttle down the right. He flicked the ball off the goal line and back to Mercado, who steered it into the net. Ousmane Dembele came on and should have equalised, fluffing his finish after a cross from Suarez, who should have had a penalty when Simon Kjaer caught him late. Messi provided the finishing touch. Again it came from the goalkeeper, Vaclik's punt falling straight to Rakitic. Dembele pulled back for Messi, who took one touch and curled it, this time right-footed, into the top corner. Sevilla looked dead on their feet, their early intensity draining away, and Messi landed the knock-out blow. There was a hint of fortune as Carles Alena's shot deflected neatly into his path. Vaclik came out but Messi scooped it over his body and in. Three times a scorer, there was still time for an assist. Messi chested and poked the ball through for Suarez, who lobbied to make it four.

Messi treble fires Barcelona to thrilling win over Sevilla

His left foot: Lionel Messi scores 50th hat-trick of career

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde is reluctant to rest Luis Suarez even though he is aware the Uruguayan is struggling for form thanks to the team's congested fixture list, which includes two games against Real Madrid over the next eight days.

La Liga leaders Barca, who have a seven-point advantage over second-placed Atletico Madrid and nine over Real, visit fourth-placed Sevilla on Saturday before back-to-back meetings at the Santiago Bernabeu, in a Copa del Rey semi-final second leg on Wednesday before a league meeting three days later.

As in recent years, the Catalans are experiencing a dip in form in February, winning one and drawing four games in all competitions this month.

Some players, including Suarez and Lionel Messi, are both going through lean spells, as fatigue appears to have caught up with them. While Messi scored on nine successive appearances from Dec. 16 to Feb. 2, he has netted only once since then. Suarez, however, has failed to score at all during February.

"We will have three really tough games in seven days, so we'll have to think about rotating. We know how costly it could be to get an injury at this stage," Valverde told a news conference on Friday.

But those plans do not include leaving out Suarez.

Suarez, 32, has come in for criticism following a poor display in Barca's 0-0 draw at Olympique Lyonnais in the Champions League.

Despite signs that the Uruguayan could benefit from another rest, Valverde said it was difficult to leave out the striker.

"He is well, last week (against Valladolid) he started on the bench so he has already rested. Suarez guarantees us chances in every game, it's difficult to let go of him," Valverde added.

"People always focus on the same names in certain moments. It's curious with Luis because he's been in the spotlight before and then he has come back and scored lots of goals. We are talking about the fifth highest scorer in the club's history.

"We just need to be patient and persevere, which is what he is doing, and the players and I are very patient with him because he's a great player."

Barca lost 2-0 in their last visit to Sevilla, in the Copa del Rey in January, but turned the tie around with a thumping 6-1 win in the second leg.

Valverde warned of the dangers of Pablo Machin's side, who thrashed Real Madrid 3-0 at home earlier this season.

"Sevilla are a fearsome team at their ground, even though they are not the same team away from home and they are suffering because of that," Valverde added.

"They have had some great results against the top teams, and the last time we went there we lost."

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde is reluctant to rest Luis Suarez even though he is aware the Uruguayan is struggling for form thanks to the team's congested fixture list, which includes two games against Real Madrid over the next eight days.

Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde is reluctant to rest Luis Suarez even though he is aware the Uruguayan is struggling for form thanks to the team's congested fixture list, which includes two games against Real Madrid over the next eight days. La Liga leaders Barca, who have a seven-point advantage over second-placed Atletico Madrid and nine over Real, visit fourth-placed Sevilla on Saturday before back-to-back meetings at the Santiago Bernabeu, in a Copa del Rey semi-final second leg on Wednesday before a league meeting three days later. As in recent years, the Catalans are experiencing a dip in form in February, winning one and drawing four games in all competitions this month. Some players, including Suarez and Lionel Messi, are both going through lean spells, as fatigue appears to have caught up with them. While Messi scored on nine successive appearances from Dec. 16 to Feb. 2, he has netted only once since then. Suarez, however, has failed to score at all during February. "We will have three really tough games in seven days, so we'll have to think about rotating. We know how costly it could be to get an injury at this stage," Valverde told a news conference on Friday. But those plans do not include leaving out Suarez. Suarez, 32, has come in for criticism following a poor display in Barca's 0-0 draw at Olympique Lyonnais in the Champions League. Despite signs that the Uruguayan could benefit from another rest, Valverde said it was difficult to leave out the striker. "He is well, last week (against Valladolid) he started on the bench so he has already rested. Suarez guarantees us chances in every game, it's difficult to let go of him," Valverde added. "People always focus on the same names in certain moments. It's curious with Luis because he's been in the spotlight before and then he has come back and scored lots of goals. We are talking about the fifth highest scorer in the club's history. "We just need to be patient and persevere, which is what he is doing, and the players and I are very patient with him because he's a great player." Barca lost 2-0 in their last visit to Sevilla, in the Copa del Rey in January, but turned the tie around with a thumping 6-1 win in the second leg. Valverde warned of the dangers of Pablo Machin's side, who thrashed Real Madrid 3-0 at home earlier this season. "Sevilla are a fearsome team at their ground, even though they are not the same team away from home and they are suffering because of that," Valverde added. "They have had some great results against the top teams, and the last time we went there we lost."

Ernesto Valverde reluctant to rest out-of-form Suarez

Barcelona: Protest against trial of secessionist Catalan leaders

Barcelona failed to score despite managing 25 shots in their goalless stalemate at Olympique Lyonnais in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/caution-returns-as-bayern-frustrate-liverpool-198412">Champions League last-16</a> on Tuesday, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of next month's second leg.

Only five of the visitors' attempts were on target but neither Lionel Messi, Ousmane Dembele nor the disappointing Luis Suarez could beat keeper Anthony Lopes at the Groupama stadium.

Lyon could even have taken the lead if it were not for a splendid Mac Andre ter Stegen save in the first half when the German tipped a ferocious Marc Terrier shot onto his crossbar.

"We came here to try and put in a good performance but we couldn't get the goal. Twenty-five shots is not bad, you need to score but when you have so many shots it means you played well, and we did," said Barca defender Clement Lenglet.

"We just lacked a bit of confidence, and I'm sure we'll score at the Nou Camp (on March 13)."

The breakthrough might not come from Uruguay forward Suarez, who has not scored in almost 25 hours in the Champions League.

"Let's see what happens in the Camp Nou but it's always good to go away from home and not concede. Lyon played well but their keeper was very good," said Lenglet.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde added: "My feeling is that we played well. We were switched on. I think that we deserved a better result and did enough to win. It just wasn't our night.

"We are strong at home but there's no denying that 0-0 away from home is a dangerous first leg result. We'll really need our fans at the Camp Nou – everything's up for grabs."

Lyon are hoping the return of their France striker and captain Nabil Fekir, who was suspended on Tuesday, will help them get an away goal.

"We know that he has what it takes, technically, to help us and to get that goal for us," said coach Bruno Genesio.

OL may not have scored but crucially they did not concede either, despite being overwhelmed in the second half, largely thanks to fullback Leo Dubois and centre back Jason Denayer.

"We had chances but didn't put them away," said forward Bertrand Traore.

"We were solid. In these kinds of matches, you have to be very disciplined. A 0-0 is a rather good result ahead of the return leg."

Barcelona failed to score despite managing 25 shots in their goalless stalemate at Olympique Lyonnais in the Champions League last-16 on Tuesday, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of next month's second leg.

Barcelona failed to score despite managing 25 shots in their goalless stalemate at Olympique Lyonnais in the Champions League last-16 on Tuesday, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of next month's second leg. Only five of the visitors' attempts were on target but neither Lionel Messi, Ousmane Dembele nor the disappointing Luis Suarez could beat keeper Anthony Lopes at the Groupama stadium. Lyon could even have taken the lead if it were not for a splendid Mac Andre ter Stegen save in the first half when the German tipped a ferocious Marc Terrier shot onto his crossbar. "We came here to try and put in a good performance but we couldn't get the goal. Twenty-five shots is not bad, you need to score but when you have so many shots it means you played well, and we did," said Barca defender Clement Lenglet. "We just lacked a bit of confidence, and I'm sure we'll score at the Nou Camp (on March 13)." The breakthrough might not come from Uruguay forward Suarez, who has not scored in almost 25 hours in the Champions League. "Let's see what happens in the Camp Nou but it's always good to go away from home and not concede. Lyon played well but their keeper was very good," said Lenglet. Barca coach Ernesto Valverde added: "My feeling is that we played well. We were switched on. I think that we deserved a better result and did enough to win. It just wasn't our night. "We are strong at home but there's no denying that 0-0 away from home is a dangerous first leg result. We'll really need our fans at the Camp Nou – everything's up for grabs." Lyon are hoping the return of their France striker and captain Nabil Fekir, who was suspended on Tuesday, will help them get an away goal. "We know that he has what it takes, technically, to help us and to get that goal for us," said coach Bruno Genesio. OL may not have scored but crucially they did not concede either, despite being overwhelmed in the second half, largely thanks to fullback Leo Dubois and centre back Jason Denayer. "We had chances but didn't put them away," said forward Bertrand Traore. "We were solid. In these kinds of matches, you have to be very disciplined. A 0-0 is a rather good result ahead of the return leg."

Profligate Barca leave Champions League progress up in the air 

With Olympique Lyonnais having beaten Paris St Germain in Ligue 1 and Manchester City in the group phase of the Champions League, Barcelona are well aware of the trap they could be stepping into when they face the French club.

Lyon handed PSG their only league defeat a couple of weeks ago and claimed a 2-1 win at Manchester City in the group phase, showing they have a capacity to raise their level when it matters.

Barca, who laboured to a 1-0 win against Valladolid in La Liga on Saturday, will not take anything for granted in the last-16 first leg on Tuesday.

"I have a lot of respect for Lyon, they beat PSG recently," midfielder Sergio Busquets told reporters.

"They have very fast players in the midfield and in attack, they try to create space. We have to close those spaces."

Coach Ernesto Valverde noted OL were undefeated in the competition.

"It is going to be a big challenge for us," Valverde said. "But we're hungry and ready for this game."

As always in the knockout stage, scoring an away goal can be paramount, and there are concerns that Barca have been less of an attacking side lately.

"It is true that scoring an away goal is important because if you don't, it leaves everything up in the air for the second leg," said Valverde.

"Everybody has their opinion but the question is surprising. Maybe we have not created that many chance but we always attack.

With Olympique Lyonnais having beaten Paris St Germain in Ligue 1 and Manchester City in the group phase of the Champions League, Barcelona are well aware of the trap they could be stepping into when they face the French club.

With Olympique Lyonnais having beaten Paris St Germain in Ligue 1 and Manchester City in the group phase of the Champions League, Barcelona are well aware of the trap they could be stepping into when they face the French club. Lyon handed PSG their only league defeat a couple of weeks ago and claimed a 2-1 win at Manchester City in the group phase, showing they have a capacity to raise their level when it matters. Barca, who laboured to a 1-0 win against Valladolid in La Liga on Saturday, will not take anything for granted in the last-16 first leg on Tuesday. "I have a lot of respect for Lyon, they beat PSG recently," midfielder Sergio Busquets told reporters. "They have very fast players in the midfield and in attack, they try to create space. We have to close those spaces." Coach Ernesto Valverde noted OL were undefeated in the competition. "It is going to be a big challenge for us," Valverde said. "But we're hungry and ready for this game." As always in the knockout stage, scoring an away goal can be paramount, and there are concerns that Barca have been less of an attacking side lately. "It is true that scoring an away goal is important because if you don't, it leaves everything up in the air for the second leg," said Valverde. "Everybody has their opinion but the question is surprising. Maybe we have not created that many chance but we always attack.

Barca wary of Lyon's capacity to raise their level

Olympique Lyonnais will be out to 'reduce' the influence of Lionel Messi when they host Barcelona in their Champions League last-16 first leg without their talisman and captain Nabil Fekir on Tuesday.

Fekir will be suspended for the game, limiting Lyon's striking power as Bruno Genesio's side will rely on defender Ferland Mendy to contain Argentine forward Messi and French striker Ousmane Dembele.

"Nabil Fekir is our captain and technical leader. We will have to do more to compensate for his absence," Genesio told reporters on Monday.

"We will have to reduce Messi's influence."

Despite Messi having scored more than 100 times in the Champions League, Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar has confidence in his team mate Mendy to control proceedings at the Groupama Stadium.

"I think that Ferland Mendy is ready to face Messi," he said.

"We are confident in the qualities of our squad."

Aouar's enthusiasm may yet be dented as Lyon are also sweating on the fitness of defender Jason Denayer and midfielder Tanguy Ndombele.

The French side geared up for Tuesday's clash with a hard-fought 2-1 Ligue 1 win against Guingamp on Friday while Barca needed a Messi penalty to beat Real Valladolid 1-0 in La Liga on Saturday.

Lyon are the clear underdogs but they have already shown they can rise up to the big occasions, inflicting Paris St Germain's only Ligue 1 defeat of the season a couple of weeks ago. They also beat English champions Manchester City in the Champions League group stage in September.

Olympique Lyonnais will be out to 'reduce' the influence of Lionel Messi when they host Barcelona in their Champions League last-16 first leg without their talisman and captain Nabil Fekir on Tuesday.

Olympique Lyonnais will be out to 'reduce' the influence of Lionel Messi when they host Barcelona in their Champions League last-16 first leg without their talisman and captain Nabil Fekir on Tuesday. Fekir will be suspended for the game, limiting Lyon's striking power as Bruno Genesio's side will rely on defender Ferland Mendy to contain Argentine forward Messi and French striker Ousmane Dembele. "Nabil Fekir is our captain and technical leader. We will have to do more to compensate for his absence," Genesio told reporters on Monday. "We will have to reduce Messi's influence." Despite Messi having scored more than 100 times in the Champions League, Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar has confidence in his team mate Mendy to control proceedings at the Groupama Stadium. "I think that Ferland Mendy is ready to face Messi," he said. "We are confident in the qualities of our squad." Aouar's enthusiasm may yet be dented as Lyon are also sweating on the fitness of defender Jason Denayer and midfielder Tanguy Ndombele. The French side geared up for Tuesday's clash with a hard-fought 2-1 Ligue 1 win against Guingamp on Friday while Barca needed a Messi penalty to beat Real Valladolid 1-0 in La Liga on Saturday. Lyon are the clear underdogs but they have already shown they can rise up to the big occasions, inflicting Paris St Germain's only Ligue 1 defeat of the season a couple of weeks ago. They also beat English champions Manchester City in the Champions League group stage in September.

Lyon hoping to limit Lionel Messi's influence

Despite an iron grip on domestic trophies, Barcelona have been haunted by their recent failures in the Champions League and there are concerning signs for the Catalans as they prepare for Tuesday's last-16 first leg away to Olympique Lyonnais.

Ernesto Valverde's side fly to France after an uninspiring 1-0 win at home to struggling Real Valladolid on Saturday which consolidated their lead at the top of La Liga but left plenty of doubts about their capabilities of winning Europe's top prize.

The drab victory over Valladolid, in which Lionel Messi scored a penalty and missed one, followed a goalless stalemate at Athletic Bilbao, a 2-2 draw with Valencia and a 1-1 draw with Real Madrid in a Copa del Rey semi-final first leg.

Coach Ernesto Valverde has played down the significance of his side's recent slack displays.

"Sometimes you cannot be brilliant in every game, but I think the team is ready to play at its very best," he said.

Defender Gerard Pique, however, was more scathing of Barca's performance and warned of the potential consequences of their lacklustre displays.

"We were not the Barca we wanted to be, the result was good, the sensations were not," he said.

"We must improve on Tuesday or we will suffer a lot. If we don't move the ball quickly, dominate the play and possession or create chances, we are a weaker team."

HUMILIATING ELIMINATION

Barca have fallen at the quarter-final stage of the Champions League each year since last winning it in 2015, suffering a particularly humiliating elimination to AS Roma last season after taking a 4-1 lead in the first leg of the tie.

They have looked on enviously as Real Madrid have won the last three editions of the big eared trophy, swelling their total number of European Cups to 13, which makes Barca's five look measly by comparison.

Despite winning three of the last four La Liga titles and collecting the Copa del Rey four years in a row, there is a widespread feeling that Barca should have fared better on the continent, especially while Messi has been at his peak.

The Argentine seems to think so too - in his first speech as captain back in August, he pledged to do "everything possible to bring that beautiful trophy back to the Nou Camp".

For that ambition to be realised, Barca must improve on a dismal away record which has seen them win only one of their last six visits in the Champions League knockout rounds, scoring three goals while conceding 13.

Barca will be boosted by the return of France's World Cup winning defender Samuel Umtiti after nearly three months out with a knee problem, while defender Thomas Vermaelen and midfielder Arthur Melo are injured.

Despite an iron grip on domestic trophies, Barcelona have been haunted by their recent failures in the Champions League and there are concerning signs for the Catalans as they prepare for Tuesday's last-16 first leg away to Olympique Lyonnais.

Despite an iron grip on domestic trophies, Barcelona have been haunted by their recent failures in the Champions League and there are concerning signs for the Catalans as they prepare for Tuesday's last-16 first leg away to Olympique Lyonnais. Ernesto Valverde's side fly to France after an uninspiring 1-0 win at home to struggling Real Valladolid on Saturday which consolidated their lead at the top of La Liga but left plenty of doubts about their capabilities of winning Europe's top prize. The drab victory over Valladolid, in which Lionel Messi scored a penalty and missed one, followed a goalless stalemate at Athletic Bilbao, a 2-2 draw with Valencia and a 1-1 draw with Real Madrid in a Copa del Rey semi-final first leg. Coach Ernesto Valverde has played down the significance of his side's recent slack displays. "Sometimes you cannot be brilliant in every game, but I think the team is ready to play at its very best," he said. Defender Gerard Pique, however, was more scathing of Barca's performance and warned of the potential consequences of their lacklustre displays. "We were not the Barca we wanted to be, the result was good, the sensations were not," he said. "We must improve on Tuesday or we will suffer a lot. If we don't move the ball quickly, dominate the play and possession or create chances, we are a weaker team." HUMILIATING ELIMINATION Barca have fallen at the quarter-final stage of the Champions League each year since last winning it in 2015, suffering a particularly humiliating elimination to AS Roma last season after taking a 4-1 lead in the first leg of the tie. They have looked on enviously as Real Madrid have won the last three editions of the big eared trophy, swelling their total number of European Cups to 13, which makes Barca's five look measly by comparison. Despite winning three of the last four La Liga titles and collecting the Copa del Rey four years in a row, there is a widespread feeling that Barca should have fared better on the continent, especially while Messi has been at his peak. The Argentine seems to think so too - in his first speech as captain back in August, he pledged to do "everything possible to bring that beautiful trophy back to the Nou Camp". For that ambition to be realised, Barca must improve on a dismal away record which has seen them win only one of their last six visits in the Champions League knockout rounds, scoring three goals while conceding 13. Barca will be boosted by the return of France's World Cup winning defender Samuel Umtiti after nearly three months out with a knee problem, while defender Thomas Vermaelen and midfielder Arthur Melo are injured.

Barcelona lack sparkle ahead of crucial Champions League mission in Lyon

In pictures: 'Seeking independence is not a crime,' Barcelona protesters say, take to streets demanding justice

Lionel Messi scored one penalty and missed another as Barcelona beat Real Valladolid 1-0 on Saturday to open up a seven-point lead at the top of La Liga.

The Catalans played far below their vibrant best but were not troubled by the visitors at the Nou Camp as they ended a run of three consecutive draws in all competitions.

Ousmane Dembele was handed his first start after injury, and loan signing Kevin-Prince Boateng featured for only the second time since joining in January as coach Ernesto Valverde started with Luis Suarez on the bench ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash at Olympique Lyonnais.

Barcelona struggled to create chances against a tight Valladolid defence, only breaking the deadlock when Messi converted a penalty won by Gerard Pique just before halftime for his 22nd league goal of the season.

Messi almost scored his second early in the second half but former Barcelona goalkeeper Jordi Masip pulled off a breathtaking stop to deny La Liga's top scorer from close range.

The Argentine had another chance from the penalty spot in the final stages after substitute Philippe Coutinho was fouled but Masip made another impressive save to deny him.

"We didn't move the ball as quickly as we needed to," said Valverde. "We lacked fluidity in the first half, we had it in the second. We were more ourselves.

"We had six chances but we know that everything is looked at through the result."

At times it seemed like Barcelona's minds were already drifting towards the return of the Champions League, with only Pique performing particularly well on his 300th La Liga appearance for the club.

The defender's charge upfield led to Barcelona's penalty in the first half and another similar drive forward got fans out of their seats after the break.

"We weren't the Barca we wanted to be today," said Pique.

"For Tuesday we have to be better or it will go badly for us. If we don't move the ball quickly, dominate possession and create chances we become a weaker team."

Messi, who has been suffering some discomfort in his thigh, looked fitter than he did last weekend when Barca drew 0-0 with Athletic Bilbao yet he gave the ball away on numerous occasions.

Valladolid, however, have the least potent attack in La Liga, having scored just 19 goals all season and rarely troubled Barca keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

Only Masip prevented Messi from adding to his tally and the goalkeeper completed an impressive homecoming display with a fine save from substitute Suarez at the end.

Lionel Messi scored one penalty and missed another as Barcelona beat Real Valladolid 1-0 on Saturday to open up a seven-point lead at the top of La Liga. The Catalans played far below their vibrant best but were not troubled by the visitors at the Nou Camp as they ended a run of three consecutive draws in all competitions.

Lionel Messi scored one penalty and missed another as Barcelona beat Real Valladolid 1-0 on Saturday to open up a seven-point lead at the top of La Liga. The Catalans played far below their vibrant best but were not troubled by the visitors at the Nou Camp as they ended a run of three consecutive draws in all competitions. Ousmane Dembele was handed his first start after injury, and loan signing Kevin-Prince Boateng featured for only the second time since joining in January as coach Ernesto Valverde started with Luis Suarez on the bench ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash at Olympique Lyonnais. Barcelona struggled to create chances against a tight Valladolid defence, only breaking the deadlock when Messi converted a penalty won by Gerard Pique just before halftime for his 22nd league goal of the season. Messi almost scored his second early in the second half but former Barcelona goalkeeper Jordi Masip pulled off a breathtaking stop to deny La Liga's top scorer from close range. The Argentine had another chance from the penalty spot in the final stages after substitute Philippe Coutinho was fouled but Masip made another impressive save to deny him. "We didn't move the ball as quickly as we needed to," said Valverde. "We lacked fluidity in the first half, we had it in the second. We were more ourselves. "We had six chances but we know that everything is looked at through the result." At times it seemed like Barcelona's minds were already drifting towards the return of the Champions League, with only Pique performing particularly well on his 300th La Liga appearance for the club. The defender's charge upfield led to Barcelona's penalty in the first half and another similar drive forward got fans out of their seats after the break. "We weren't the Barca we wanted to be today," said Pique. "For Tuesday we have to be better or it will go badly for us. If we don't move the ball quickly, dominate possession and create chances we become a weaker team." Messi, who has been suffering some discomfort in his thigh, looked fitter than he did last weekend when Barca drew 0-0 with Athletic Bilbao yet he gave the ball away on numerous occasions. Valladolid, however, have the least potent attack in La Liga, having scored just 19 goals all season and rarely troubled Barca keeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Only Masip prevented Messi from adding to his tally and the goalkeeper completed an impressive homecoming display with a fine save from substitute Suarez at the end.

La Liga: Messi penalty helps under-par Barcelona beat Real Valladolid

Thousands march through Barcelona claiming independence

Barcelona have extended coach Ernesto Valverde's contract by another year until the end of the 2019-20 season with an option for one more year, the La Liga champions said on Friday.

"FC Barcelona and Ernesto Valverde, the first team coach, have reached an agreement to extend the contract between the two parties for another season (2019/20) with the option for one more (2020/21)," the club said in a statement on their website.

The announcement is a huge vote of confidence in Valverde, whose future with the club looked uncertain after he said last December that he did not know what he would be doing the following year.

Valverde, 55, succeeded Luis Enrique as coach in 2017, earning the job after sustained success with Athletic Bilbao.

He guided Barca to a La Liga and Copa del Rey double in his debut campaign and almost led them to an unbeaten season in the league, losing only their penultimate game to Levante.

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He, however, faced strong criticism for the team's failure in the Champions League, exiting the tournament on away goals to AS Roma, throwing away a 4-1 lead from the first leg by losing 3-0 in the away leg.&nbsp;

The collapse in Europe's elite competition, which Barca have not won since 2015 while Real Madrid have lifted the trophy for the last three years, seriously damaged the coach's reputation and cast doubt on his long term future.&nbsp;

Last month, Valverde said his stay at the club would depend on his achievements this season, and there was a feeling he would not be given an extra year if the club did not make serious progress in the Champions League.&nbsp;

Barcelona lead the league standings with 51 points from 23 games, six points ahead of Real Madrid. They face Real Valladolid in La Liga on Saturday, meeting Olympique Lyonnais in a Champions League last-16 first leg on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Barcelona have extended coach Ernesto Valverde's contract by another year until the end of the 2019-20 season with an option for one more year, the La Liga champions said on Friday.

Barcelona have extended coach Ernesto Valverde's contract by another year until the end of the 2019-20 season with an option for one more year, the La Liga champions said on Friday. "FC Barcelona and Ernesto Valverde, the first team coach, have reached an agreement to extend the contract between the two parties for another season (2019/20) with the option for one more (2020/21)," the club said in a statement on their website. The announcement is a huge vote of confidence in Valverde, whose future with the club looked uncertain after he said last December that he did not know what he would be doing the following year. Valverde, 55, succeeded Luis Enrique as coach in 2017, earning the job after sustained success with Athletic Bilbao. He guided Barca to a La Liga and Copa del Rey double in his debut campaign and almost led them to an unbeaten season in the league, losing only their penultimate game to Levante. ❗ [LATEST NEWS] Agreement to extend Ernesto Valverde's contract More info 👉 https://t.co/LiAjy53jnP pic.twitter.com/ehuoU4V5ms — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) February 15, 2019 × He, however, faced strong criticism for the team's failure in the Champions League, exiting the tournament on away goals to AS Roma, throwing away a 4-1 lead from the first leg by losing 3-0 in the away leg. The collapse in Europe's elite competition, which Barca have not won since 2015 while Real Madrid have lifted the trophy for the last three years, seriously damaged the coach's reputation and cast doubt on his long term future. Last month, Valverde said his stay at the club would depend on his achievements this season, and there was a feeling he would not be given an extra year if the club did not make serious progress in the Champions League. Barcelona lead the league standings with 51 points from 23 games, six points ahead of Real Madrid. They face Real Valladolid in La Liga on Saturday, meeting Olympique Lyonnais in a Champions League last-16 first leg on Tuesday.

Barcelona extend Ernesto Valverde contract until 2020

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