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

Lionel Messi was short of fitness and Barcelona lacked spark as a goalless draw away to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday offered fresh hope to their rivals in the title race.&nbsp;

A thigh injury had limited Messi to 27 minutes against Real Madrid on Wednesday and while he played the full match at San Mames, Barca's assistant coach Jon Aspiazu had admitted before kick-off he was not yet 100 per cent.&nbsp;

In all likelihood, he stayed on because his team needed him but Messi was not at his best and neither were Barcelona, who would even have lost had it not been for Marc Andre Ter Stegen's stunning late save to deny Inaki Williams.&nbsp;

"He saved us," coach Ernesto Valverde said. "It was a great stop."

The draw makes it three games without a win for La Liga's leaders, whose advantage is still six points but now with Real Madrid their closest challengers, after they beat Atletico on Saturday.&nbsp;

"We were first last week and we are still first, and if my maths is right, we will be again next week," Valverde said.

But Real's victory at the Wanda Metropolitano was their fifth on the bounce and just as they have gained momentum, Barca appears to be losing theirs, at a crucial juncture, with more stern tests to come.&nbsp;

After Real Valladolid at home next weekend, Valverde's side travel to Lyon in the Champions League and Sevilla in the league. They then face two Clasicos in four days, one in the Copa del Rey, and both at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"We are playing a lot of games at the moment and that shows," Luis Suarez said. "We also lacked communication today -- it is the little details that make a difference."

Injuries have not helped either. Messi was picked but not fully recovered while Ousmane Dembele was fit enough only for the bench, having shaken off an ankle injury.&nbsp;

Coutinho struggling&nbsp;

The struggling Philippe Coutinho retained his place alongside Suarez and Messi up front but Arturo Vidal came in for the injured Arthur Melo and Nelson Semedo started at left back, with Jordi Alba suspended.&nbsp;

Bilbao had the better of the early stages as Yuri Berchiche flashed just wide after a poor pass from Vidal while Markel Susaeta's drive forced the leaping Ter Stegen into an acrobatic save.&nbsp;

Barcelona settled into the game but was never in control. Still, they twice should have scored, with Messi and Suarez both guilty of missing.&nbsp;

First, Suarez peeled free at the back post but glanced wide from Messi's cross and then Messi hit the crossbar, the goal gaping after Iago Herrerin had rushed out to intercept Nelson Semedo.&nbsp;

The game was frantic and Bilbao was more than holding their own. Raul Garcia's finish was blocked and Mikel San Jose's effort whistled inches outside of the post.&nbsp;

In between, Barca had enjoyed their best spell at the start of the second half but the gaps always seemed to close around the penalty area and they struggled to find a way through.&nbsp;

Dembele replaced Coutinho with just over 10 minutes left but Bilbao had the best chance to win it. Iker Muniain squared for Williams, who looked certain to score after wriggling free of Gerard Pique. Instead, Ter Stegen shot out his right hand, somehow denying the striker from eight yards.&nbsp;

De Marcos received a second yellow card in injury-time for a handball but there was no time for Barce to feel the benefit. Bilbao held on.&nbsp;

Lionel Messi was short of fitness and Barcelona lacked spark as a goalless draw away to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday offered fresh hope to their rivals in the title race.

Lionel Messi was short of fitness and Barcelona lacked spark as a goalless draw away to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday offered fresh hope to their rivals in the title race. A thigh injury had limited Messi to 27 minutes against Real Madrid on Wednesday and while he played the full match at San Mames, Barca's assistant coach Jon Aspiazu had admitted before kick-off he was not yet 100 per cent. In all likelihood, he stayed on because his team needed him but Messi was not at his best and neither were Barcelona, who would even have lost had it not been for Marc Andre Ter Stegen's stunning late save to deny Inaki Williams. "He saved us," coach Ernesto Valverde said. "It was a great stop." The draw makes it three games without a win for La Liga's leaders, whose advantage is still six points but now with Real Madrid their closest challengers, after they beat Atletico on Saturday. "We were first last week and we are still first, and if my maths is right, we will be again next week," Valverde said. But Real's victory at the Wanda Metropolitano was their fifth on the bounce and just as they have gained momentum, Barca appears to be losing theirs, at a crucial juncture, with more stern tests to come. After Real Valladolid at home next weekend, Valverde's side travel to Lyon in the Champions League and Sevilla in the league. They then face two Clasicos in four days, one in the Copa del Rey, and both at the Santiago Bernabeu. "We are playing a lot of games at the moment and that shows," Luis Suarez said. "We also lacked communication today -- it is the little details that make a difference." Injuries have not helped either. Messi was picked but not fully recovered while Ousmane Dembele was fit enough only for the bench, having shaken off an ankle injury. Coutinho struggling The struggling Philippe Coutinho retained his place alongside Suarez and Messi up front but Arturo Vidal came in for the injured Arthur Melo and Nelson Semedo started at left back, with Jordi Alba suspended. Bilbao had the better of the early stages as Yuri Berchiche flashed just wide after a poor pass from Vidal while Markel Susaeta's drive forced the leaping Ter Stegen into an acrobatic save. Barcelona settled into the game but was never in control. Still, they twice should have scored, with Messi and Suarez both guilty of missing. First, Suarez peeled free at the back post but glanced wide from Messi's cross and then Messi hit the crossbar, the goal gaping after Iago Herrerin had rushed out to intercept Nelson Semedo. The game was frantic and Bilbao was more than holding their own. Raul Garcia's finish was blocked and Mikel San Jose's effort whistled inches outside of the post. In between, Barca had enjoyed their best spell at the start of the second half but the gaps always seemed to close around the penalty area and they struggled to find a way through. Dembele replaced Coutinho with just over 10 minutes left but Bilbao had the best chance to win it. Iker Muniain squared for Williams, who looked certain to score after wriggling free of Gerard Pique. Instead, Ter Stegen shot out his right hand, somehow denying the striker from eight yards. De Marcos received a second yellow card in injury-time for a handball but there was no time for Barce to feel the benefit. Bilbao held on.

Barcelona give fresh hope to La Liga rivals after Athletic Bilbao stalemate

Lionel Messi's stunning two goals helped Barcelona come from behind to draw 2-2 against Valencia at Camp Nou in La Liga on Saturday.&nbsp;

Messi's brace helped his side rescue a point in a tough game also making him the first player in Europe’s top leagues to reach 20 league goals for the season.

French striker Kevin Gameiro and a Dani Parejo penalty helped Valencia take a two-goal lead before half-time against the league leaders.&nbsp;

However, it was a foul by Toni Lato that led to Messi halving the hosts' deficit six minutes before the interval with a spot-kick of his own.&nbsp;

Messi then struck again in the 64th minute, after Arturo Vidal had laid the ball off to him at the top of the penalty area.

Neither team could find a winner in the remaining 30 minutes of the match, but the draw ensured Barca avoided a first league loss since November and took them to 50 points from 22 games.

Lionel Messi's stunning two goals helped Barcelona come from behind to draw 2-2 against Valencia at Camp Nou in La Liga on Saturday. Messi's brace helped his side rescue a point in a tough game also making him the first player in Europe’s top leagues to reach 20 league goals for the season.

Lionel Messi's stunning two goals helped Barcelona come from behind to draw 2-2 against Valencia at Camp Nou in La Liga on Saturday. Messi's brace helped his side rescue a point in a tough game also making him the first player in Europe’s top leagues to reach 20 league goals for the season. French striker Kevin Gameiro and a Dani Parejo penalty helped Valencia take a two-goal lead before half-time against the league leaders. However, it was a foul by Toni Lato that led to Messi halving the hosts' deficit six minutes before the interval with a spot-kick of his own. Messi then struck again in the 64th minute, after Arturo Vidal had laid the ball off to him at the top of the penalty area. Neither team could find a winner in the remaining 30 minutes of the match, but the draw ensured Barca avoided a first league loss since November and took them to 50 points from 22 games.

La Liga: Lionel Messi brace inspires Barcelona comeback draw against Valencia

Lionel Messi came off the bench to inspire Barcelona to a 3-1 win over a dogged Leganes side on Sunday, creating one goal and scoring another to keep the Catalans five points clear at the top of La Liga.

Messi, left out of the starting line-up for only the second time this season when fit, was called on in the 64th minute with the game poised at 1-1 after Leganes forward Martin Braithwaite had cancelled out Ousmane Dembele's first-half opener with a 57th-minute strike.

The Argentine quickly provided the spark Barca needed by firing a venomous shot from the outside the area which was too powerful for goalkeeper Ivan Cuellar to hold, and Luis Suarez pounced to stab home on the rebound in the 71st minute.

The goal was awarded after a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) review, with Leganes furiously claiming that Suarez had fouled Cuellar, who needed treatment on the pitch after being struck by the foot of the Uruguayan striker.

Messi made sure of the victory in stoppage-time, sweeping across the area and hammering the ball past a helpless Cuellar for his 18th goal of the season in La Liga, taking leaders Barca on to 46 points, five clear of nearest challengers Atletico Madrid, after 20 games.

"We played well, Leganes could do nothing in attack but we were just lacking precision in the final pass. They then scored out of nothing, but Leo came on and did what we know he can do," said Barca midfielder Sergio Busquets.

WORRYING SCENES

There were worrying scenes for Barca when France forward Dembele was forced off injured midway through the second half after writhing on the floor in pain. The club later confirmed he had sprained his ankle.

Dembele has shaken off previous criticism over lapses in discipline to become one of Barca's most productive players in recent weeks.

With Messi resting on the bench in the first half, Dembele was the team's focal point in attack, frequently finding holes in the Leganes defence with thrilling bursts of pace and wild dribbles.

He put Barca in front shortly after the half-hour mark with a first-time shot in off the post, receiving a cut-back from Jordi Alba.

Dembele later combined with Philippe Coutinho which should have led to the Brazilian doubling Barca's lead, but the club's record signing fired just wide.

"Dembele has been in fantastic form recently after the controversy, he gives us speed, unpredictability and goals," added Busquets on the Frenchman's transformation.

"He was unlucky with the injury, we hope it's nothing."

Leganes, who stunned Barca by coming from behind to beat the champions 2-1 at home back in September, also refused to give in after conceding the opener and after limiting Barca's attempts to stretch their lead, they drew level.

Danish forward Braithwaite slid in to meet a perfectly- weighted cross from Youssef En Nesyri and knock the ball into the net from close range for a second goal in four days after scoring against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey.

Dembele narrowly fired wide, so Barca coach Ernesto Valverde turned to Messi to see Leganes off, and the club's all-time top scorer duly delivered.

Lionel Messi came off the bench to inspire Barcelona to a 3-1 win over a dogged Leganes side on Sunday, creating one goal and scoring another to keep the Catalans five points clear at the top of La Liga.

Lionel Messi came off the bench to inspire Barcelona to a 3-1 win over a dogged Leganes side on Sunday, creating one goal and scoring another to keep the Catalans five points clear at the top of La Liga. Messi, left out of the starting line-up for only the second time this season when fit, was called on in the 64th minute with the game poised at 1-1 after Leganes forward Martin Braithwaite had cancelled out Ousmane Dembele's first-half opener with a 57th-minute strike. The Argentine quickly provided the spark Barca needed by firing a venomous shot from the outside the area which was too powerful for goalkeeper Ivan Cuellar to hold, and Luis Suarez pounced to stab home on the rebound in the 71st minute. The goal was awarded after a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) review, with Leganes furiously claiming that Suarez had fouled Cuellar, who needed treatment on the pitch after being struck by the foot of the Uruguayan striker. Messi made sure of the victory in stoppage-time, sweeping across the area and hammering the ball past a helpless Cuellar for his 18th goal of the season in La Liga, taking leaders Barca on to 46 points, five clear of nearest challengers Atletico Madrid, after 20 games. "We played well, Leganes could do nothing in attack but we were just lacking precision in the final pass. They then scored out of nothing, but Leo came on and did what we know he can do," said Barca midfielder Sergio Busquets. WORRYING SCENES There were worrying scenes for Barca when France forward Dembele was forced off injured midway through the second half after writhing on the floor in pain. The club later confirmed he had sprained his ankle. Dembele has shaken off previous criticism over lapses in discipline to become one of Barca's most productive players in recent weeks. With Messi resting on the bench in the first half, Dembele was the team's focal point in attack, frequently finding holes in the Leganes defence with thrilling bursts of pace and wild dribbles. He put Barca in front shortly after the half-hour mark with a first-time shot in off the post, receiving a cut-back from Jordi Alba. Dembele later combined with Philippe Coutinho which should have led to the Brazilian doubling Barca's lead, but the club's record signing fired just wide. "Dembele has been in fantastic form recently after the controversy, he gives us speed, unpredictability and goals," added Busquets on the Frenchman's transformation. "He was unlucky with the injury, we hope it's nothing." Leganes, who stunned Barca by coming from behind to beat the champions 2-1 at home back in September, also refused to give in after conceding the opener and after limiting Barca's attempts to stretch their lead, they drew level. Danish forward Braithwaite slid in to meet a perfectly- weighted cross from Youssef En Nesyri and knock the ball into the net from close range for a second goal in four days after scoring against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey. Dembele narrowly fired wide, so Barca coach Ernesto Valverde turned to Messi to see Leganes off, and the club's all-time top scorer duly delivered.

La Liga: Lionel Messi called off the bench to sink Leganes

Real Madrid were dealt a double injury blow after scans revealed striker Karim Benzema has fractured a finger, while defender Jesus Vallejo suffered a hamstring injury in training on Monday.

Striker Benzema sustained the problem in Sunday's 2-1 La Liga win at Real Betis and was taken off at halftime, with Spanish media reports suggesting he could miss up to three weeks.

"He has been diagnosed with a fracture in the phalanx of the fifth finger in the right hand," said Madrid in a statement. "The player's situation will continue to be monitored."

Vallejo left the club's training session on Monday in tears, said Madrid newspaper AS.

The 22-year-old centre back has only been able to feature in two matches this season because of a series of physical problems, with this his fourth injury.

Benzema and Vallejo join Gareth Bale, Toni Kroos, Thibaut Courtois, Marcos Llorente, Marco Asensio and Mariano Diaz on the sidelines.

Madrid, fourth in the league, face Leganes on Wednesday in the Copa del Rey last 16 second leg before hosting Sevilla, third, on Saturday.

Real Madrid were dealt a double injury blow after scans revealed striker Karim Benzema has fractured a finger, while defender Jesus Vallejo suffered a hamstring injury in training on Monday.

Real Madrid were dealt a double injury blow after scans revealed striker Karim Benzema has fractured a finger, while defender Jesus Vallejo suffered a hamstring injury in training on Monday. Striker Benzema sustained the problem in Sunday's 2-1 La Liga win at Real Betis and was taken off at halftime, with Spanish media reports suggesting he could miss up to three weeks. "He has been diagnosed with a fracture in the phalanx of the fifth finger in the right hand," said Madrid in a statement. "The player's situation will continue to be monitored." Vallejo left the club's training session on Monday in tears, said Madrid newspaper AS. The 22-year-old centre back has only been able to feature in two matches this season because of a series of physical problems, with this his fourth injury. Benzema and Vallejo join Gareth Bale, Toni Kroos, Thibaut Courtois, Marcos Llorente, Marco Asensio and Mariano Diaz on the sidelines. Madrid, fourth in the league, face Leganes on Wednesday in the Copa del Rey last 16 second leg before hosting Sevilla, third, on Saturday.

Karim Benzema and Jesus Vallejo add to Real Madrid injury problems

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi added another feather in his illustrious cap by becoming the first player to score 400 goals in La Liga when he netted against Eibar on Sunday.

The Argentine, who has been the competition's all-time top scorer since 2014, struck the second goal of a 3-0 win at the Nou Camp early in the second half.

Messi, who is also the club's all-time top scorer, was given a fittingly ecstatic reception by the Barca fans.

"Obviously, we have to be very proud of Messi because every week he demonstrates how good he is and continues to make history with the club," said Luis Suarez, who scored Barca's other two goals in a win that kept them five points clear at the top of La Liga.

Messi, named Barca captain at the start of this season, was making his 435th La Liga appearance for the club, having made his league debut in 2004.

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi added another feather in his illustrious cap by becoming the first player to score 400 goals in La Liga when he netted against Eibar on Sunday.

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi added another feather in his illustrious cap by becoming the first player to score 400 goals in La Liga when he netted against Eibar on Sunday. The Argentine, who has been the competition's all-time top scorer since 2014, struck the second goal of a 3-0 win at the Nou Camp early in the second half. Messi, who is also the club's all-time top scorer, was given a fittingly ecstatic reception by the Barca fans. "Obviously, we have to be very proud of Messi because every week he demonstrates how good he is and continues to make history with the club," said Luis Suarez, who scored Barca's other two goals in a win that kept them five points clear at the top of La Liga. Messi, named Barca captain at the start of this season, was making his 435th La Liga appearance for the club, having made his league debut in 2004.

Lionel Messi becomes first player to score 400 goals in La Liga

Lionel Messi scored for the seventh time in four La Liga games as champions Barcelona scrapped their way to a hard-fought 2-1 win at Getafe on Sunday that propelled them five points clear at the top of the table.

Messi, La Liga's top scorer this season, opened his account for 2019 with his 16th goal, giving Barca a 20th-minute lead as he tucked the ball into the net from a tight angle after his initial shot was saved by the legs of Getafe keeper David Soria.

It took the Argentine's career tally to a staggering 399 goals in La Liga before Uruguay striker Luis Suarez doubled Barca's advantage in the 39th with a spectacular volley from outside the area.

Yet Getafe hit back two minutes before the interval with a close-range finish from striker Jaime Mata after a splendid team move and continued to push hard after the break.

Barca, who have won seven out of the last 10 La Liga titles, now lead the standings on 40 points after 18 games, stretching the gap to five points over their nearest pursuers Atletico Madrid, who drew 1-1 with third-placed Sevilla.

The Catalans are 10 points ahead of European champions Real Madrid, whose struggles continued with a 2-0 home defeat by Real Sociedad.

"We were aware of those results before going out on the pitch and were under pressure to make the most of the opportunity, and we went out to do that at a very difficult ground," Barca coach Ernesto Valverde told reporters.

"We expected it was going to be a tough game and it was. They got right back into the game with their goal but we are very happy. We've increased the gap with our rivals, but there's still a long way to go."

Getafe's Mata, who had an earlier first-half strike ruled out at 0-0 for an apparent foul by team mate Angel Rodriguez, missed a big chance in the second half, ballooning the ball over the bar with Barca's goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen stranded.

Ter Stegen then made a flying save to keep out a powerful Leandro Cabrera header, while Soria also did well to prevent both Messi, hunting that landmark 400th goal, and French defender Clement Lenglet from stretching Barca's lead.

"These are the types of games that win you half the title, especially considering the other results before we played," said goalscorer Suarez.

"The other team plays as well, and Getafe are very strong at home so it was very difficult. There were a lot of battles out there but it all stays on the pitch. We're feeling very positive, the title is in our own hands."

Lionel Messi scored for the seventh time in four La Liga games as champions Barcelona scrapped their way to a hard-fought 2-1 win at Getafe on Sunday that propelled them five points clear at the top of the table.

Lionel Messi scored for the seventh time in four La Liga games as champions Barcelona scrapped their way to a hard-fought 2-1 win at Getafe on Sunday that propelled them five points clear at the top of the table. Messi, La Liga's top scorer this season, opened his account for 2019 with his 16th goal, giving Barca a 20th-minute lead as he tucked the ball into the net from a tight angle after his initial shot was saved by the legs of Getafe keeper David Soria. It took the Argentine's career tally to a staggering 399 goals in La Liga before Uruguay striker Luis Suarez doubled Barca's advantage in the 39th with a spectacular volley from outside the area. Yet Getafe hit back two minutes before the interval with a close-range finish from striker Jaime Mata after a splendid team move and continued to push hard after the break. Barca, who have won seven out of the last 10 La Liga titles, now lead the standings on 40 points after 18 games, stretching the gap to five points over their nearest pursuers Atletico Madrid, who drew 1-1 with third-placed Sevilla. The Catalans are 10 points ahead of European champions Real Madrid, whose struggles continued with a 2-0 home defeat by Real Sociedad. "We were aware of those results before going out on the pitch and were under pressure to make the most of the opportunity, and we went out to do that at a very difficult ground," Barca coach Ernesto Valverde told reporters. "We expected it was going to be a tough game and it was. They got right back into the game with their goal but we are very happy. We've increased the gap with our rivals, but there's still a long way to go." Getafe's Mata, who had an earlier first-half strike ruled out at 0-0 for an apparent foul by team mate Angel Rodriguez, missed a big chance in the second half, ballooning the ball over the bar with Barca's goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen stranded. Ter Stegen then made a flying save to keep out a powerful Leandro Cabrera header, while Soria also did well to prevent both Messi, hunting that landmark 400th goal, and French defender Clement Lenglet from stretching Barca's lead. "These are the types of games that win you half the title, especially considering the other results before we played," said goalscorer Suarez. "The other team plays as well, and Getafe are very strong at home so it was very difficult. There were a lot of battles out there but it all stays on the pitch. We're feeling very positive, the title is in our own hands."

Lionel Messi on target again as Barcelona stretch La Liga lead

La Liga’s plans to stage a match in the United States next month have been derailed after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/try-something-new-come-to-italy-cristiano-ronaldo-urges-lionel-messi-182996">Barcelona</a>, who were scheduled to play Girona in Miami, withdrew their support for the game on Monday following a board meeting.

The Spanish league signed a 15-year agreement with entertainment company Relevent Sports designed to promote the sport and La Liga in North America back in August.

The deal included hosting one regular season Spanish league game on American soil per season – with Girona's home match against Catalan neighbours Barcelona earmarked to be played on Jan. 26 at the home of the NFL's Miami Dolphins.

The proposal received opposition from the Spanish FA and soccer's world and European governing bodies, UEFA and FIFA, and it now appears that Barca’s support is also wavering whilst the various parties involved cannot reach an agreement.

“The FC Barcelona Board of Directors have agreed to withdraw their willingness to play against Girona in Miami after seeing the lack of consensus surrounding the proposal,” read a club statement.

“Barcelona were and are willing to go to Miami in order to play a La Liga game, and accepted that the profits would be shared amongst all clubs in the first and second divisions, in alignment with the TV rights deal, but considers that while all the parties involved cannot reach an agreement, this project cannot thrive.”

A source close to the negotiations downplayed the setback, telling Reuters that holding the match next month was probably too aggressive a timeline and adding that it was likely to be played sometime next year.

La Liga’s plans to stage a match in the United States next month have been derailed after Barcelona, who were scheduled to play Girona in Miami, withdrew their support for the game on Monday following a board meeting.

La Liga’s plans to stage a match in the United States next month have been derailed after Barcelona, who were scheduled to play Girona in Miami, withdrew their support for the game on Monday following a board meeting. The Spanish league signed a 15-year agreement with entertainment company Relevent Sports designed to promote the sport and La Liga in North America back in August. The deal included hosting one regular season Spanish league game on American soil per season – with Girona's home match against Catalan neighbours Barcelona earmarked to be played on Jan. 26 at the home of the NFL's Miami Dolphins. The proposal received opposition from the Spanish FA and soccer's world and European governing bodies, UEFA and FIFA, and it now appears that Barca’s support is also wavering whilst the various parties involved cannot reach an agreement. “The FC Barcelona Board of Directors have agreed to withdraw their willingness to play against Girona in Miami after seeing the lack of consensus surrounding the proposal,” read a club statement. “Barcelona were and are willing to go to Miami in order to play a La Liga game, and accepted that the profits would be shared amongst all clubs in the first and second divisions, in alignment with the TV rights deal, but considers that while all the parties involved cannot reach an agreement, this project cannot thrive.” A source close to the negotiations downplayed the setback, telling Reuters that holding the match next month was probably too aggressive a timeline and adding that it was likely to be played sometime next year.

Barcelona back out of next month's La Liga Miami match

Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele needs to improve his attitude and focus on being more professional even if he <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-back-out-of-next-months-la-liga-miami-match-183117">does want to leave the La Liga leaders</a>, the club's former championship winning player Rivaldo has said.

Dembele, who joined Barcelona in August 2017 for 105 million euros ($119.45 million), suffered injury problems in his first year and this season has been criticised for his behaviour, including turning up late to training and events.

Media reports have linked the 21-year-old with a move away from the Nou Camp during next month's transfer window.

Brazilian Rivaldo, who played for Barca for five years from 1997 and is regarded as one of the most skilful attackers of his generation, said there was no doubting the Frenchman's talents.

Dembele has only scored 12 goals for Barca but several of those have been important strikes in the league, the Spanish Super Cup and the Champions League.

"Ousmane Dembele's situation at Barcelona is upsetting because he's already shown that he can play very well, score goals and be an important member of the team," Rivaldo, who won the World Cup with Brazil in 2002, told Betfair.

"He just needs to focus on being a little more professional and to stop being late for training sessions.

"This is not the correct mentality for someone potentially trying to leave Barcelona. It's always strange to hear that someone might want to leave a big club in this way.

HURTING HIMSELF

"If he wants to leave, he must prove his value by playing well and not missing training sessions to recover his credibility as a professional. That will generate interest from other clubs. If he doesn't change, he is hurting himself more than the club."

Reports in the Spanish media said that Dembele arrived two hours late for training on Sunday after Barca's 4-0 league win over Espanyol the previous evening.

He may get a chance at redemption later on Tuesday when Barcelona take on Tottenham Hotspur in Group B of the Champions League. Ernesto Valverde's side has already qualified for the last 16 as group winners ahead of the final matchday, but Rivaldo said that his former team should be wary of Spurs who need a win to guarantee a place in the next round.

"With Barcelona already through to the knockout stages, and with the added possibility of them rotating their team, Spurs will have a bigger chance to upset them, but it won't be easy to win at Camp Nou," the former world player of the year added.

"Barca could become more vulnerable if they change anything in defence because Tottenham are such a talented attacking team. Players that have had fewer minutes on the pitch compared to the usual starting XI will naturally concede more chances."

Rivaldo lifted the Champions League trophy with AC Milan in 2003 but tipped the Catalans as favourites for this year's competition, just ahead of record 13-times winners Real Madrid and Premier League champions Manchester City.

Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele needs to improve his attitude and focus on being more professional even if he does want to leave the La Liga leaders, the club's former championship winning player Rivaldo has said.

Barcelona winger Ousmane Dembele needs to improve his attitude and focus on being more professional even if he does want to leave the La Liga leaders, the club's former championship winning player Rivaldo has said. Dembele, who joined Barcelona in August 2017 for 105 million euros ($119.45 million), suffered injury problems in his first year and this season has been criticised for his behaviour, including turning up late to training and events. Media reports have linked the 21-year-old with a move away from the Nou Camp during next month's transfer window. Brazilian Rivaldo, who played for Barca for five years from 1997 and is regarded as one of the most skilful attackers of his generation, said there was no doubting the Frenchman's talents. Dembele has only scored 12 goals for Barca but several of those have been important strikes in the league, the Spanish Super Cup and the Champions League. "Ousmane Dembele's situation at Barcelona is upsetting because he's already shown that he can play very well, score goals and be an important member of the team," Rivaldo, who won the World Cup with Brazil in 2002, told Betfair. "He just needs to focus on being a little more professional and to stop being late for training sessions. "This is not the correct mentality for someone potentially trying to leave Barcelona. It's always strange to hear that someone might want to leave a big club in this way. HURTING HIMSELF "If he wants to leave, he must prove his value by playing well and not missing training sessions to recover his credibility as a professional. That will generate interest from other clubs. If he doesn't change, he is hurting himself more than the club." Reports in the Spanish media said that Dembele arrived two hours late for training on Sunday after Barca's 4-0 league win over Espanyol the previous evening. He may get a chance at redemption later on Tuesday when Barcelona take on Tottenham Hotspur in Group B of the Champions League. Ernesto Valverde's side has already qualified for the last 16 as group winners ahead of the final matchday, but Rivaldo said that his former team should be wary of Spurs who need a win to guarantee a place in the next round. "With Barcelona already through to the knockout stages, and with the added possibility of them rotating their team, Spurs will have a bigger chance to upset them, but it won't be easy to win at Camp Nou," the former world player of the year added. "Barca could become more vulnerable if they change anything in defence because Tottenham are such a talented attacking team. Players that have had fewer minutes on the pitch compared to the usual starting XI will naturally concede more chances." Rivaldo lifted the Champions League trophy with AC Milan in 2003 but tipped the Catalans as favourites for this year's competition, just ahead of record 13-times winners Real Madrid and Premier League champions Manchester City.

Stop being late and prove your value, Rivaldo urges Barca's Dembele

Ousmane Dembele took another step on the road to redemption as Barcelona eased past Villarreal on Sunday to move back to the top of La Liga.&nbsp;

Dembele, dropped last month by coach Ernesto Valverde, was making his second consecutive start and repaid the faith by teeing up Gerard Pique's opening goal in a comfortable 2-0 win at the Camp Nou.&nbsp;

Carles Alena, the 20-year-old Spaniard also regarded as a star of the future, came off the bench to add a late flourish, chipping in his first La Liga goal and Barca's second after a defence-splitting pass from Lionel Messi.&nbsp;

"Alena has earned his step up to the first team," Valverde said.

A narrow victory puts Barca back at the top, in front of Sevilla and Atletico Madrid, who were each held to 1-1 draws earlier on Sunday, away to Alaves and Girona respectively.

Villarreal, meanwhile, stay 17th, with the pressure mounting on coach Javier Calleja, who has overseen only one league win since September.&nbsp;

Alena, a dainty attacking midfielder with 13 years training in Barca's academy, is likely to enjoy many more celebrations in front of the club's fans but for Dembele, the sense was time had been running out.&nbsp;

Valverde's patience with the 21-year-old appeared to be wearing thin when he was dropped against Real Betis three weeks ago but a late equaliser against Atletico earned a reprieve, and this was another lively performance.&nbsp;

"He played a great game and was one of our outstanding players," Valverde said. "He has so many assets - penetration, dribbling, shooting, speed, confidence, daring. Let's hope it continues like this."

Heartening too for Valverde will have been the clean sheet, Barcelona's first in the league since the second game of the season back in August.&nbsp;

An early Dembele shot might have gone in had it not been blocked by Santiago Caseres before the Frenchman turned provider, picking out Pique with a perfectly judged cross. Pique held off Victor Ruiz, perhaps even too vigorously, and headed in.&nbsp;

Villarreal, however, remained in touch, literally, as Pique was lucky to escape a harsher punishment when he threw a hand into Gerard Moreno's face. When Moreno was substituted he made sure to mutter towards Pique on his way off.

Barca finally put the result beyond doubt as Messi's brilliant pass from deep freed Alena, who chipped Sergio Asenjo like he had scored dozens of goals like this rather than just his first.

Little over 100 kilometres away in Catalonia, Atletico Madrid's troubles away from home had continued as they needed Diego Costa to help them snatch a late equaliser against Girona.

Costa's excellent run and first touch panicked Girona's Jonas Ramalho into poking into his own net at Montilivi after the in-form Cristhian Stuani had fired the hosts ahead from the penalty spot.

Avoiding defeat was enough to put a smile on Diego Simeone's face at full-time but his side have now won only once in seven league matches on the road this season.

"La Liga is barbaric," Simeone said afterwards. "There are no easy opponents."

Girona are seventh, with Stuani leading the way. His goal from the spot was his 12th of the campaign and enough to leave him top of the scoring charts, ahead of Iago Aspas and Messi.&nbsp;

Sevilla could have reclaimed their place at the summit but instead became the latest side to be thwarted at Mendizorrotza.&nbsp;

Alaves stormed ahead when Sevilla's Sergi Gomez played Jonathan Calleri onside by feathering the ball on its way through, with Jony waiting to finish at the back post.&nbsp;

Sevilla were incensed but still left with a point thanks to a smart finish from Wissam Ben Yedder. Alaves stay fourth, with the draw ensuring only two of the table's top six - Barca and Real Madrid - managed to win this weekend.

Ousmane Dembele took another step on the road to redemption as Barcelona eased past Villarreal on Sunday to move back to the top of La Liga. Dembele, dropped last month by coach Ernesto Valverde, was making his second consecutive start and repaid the faith by teeing up Gerard Pique's opening goal in a comfortable 2-0 win at the Camp Nou.

Ousmane Dembele took another step on the road to redemption as Barcelona eased past Villarreal on Sunday to move back to the top of La Liga. Dembele, dropped last month by coach Ernesto Valverde, was making his second consecutive start and repaid the faith by teeing up Gerard Pique's opening goal in a comfortable 2-0 win at the Camp Nou. Carles Alena, the 20-year-old Spaniard also regarded as a star of the future, came off the bench to add a late flourish, chipping in his first La Liga goal and Barca's second after a defence-splitting pass from Lionel Messi. "Alena has earned his step up to the first team," Valverde said. A narrow victory puts Barca back at the top, in front of Sevilla and Atletico Madrid, who were each held to 1-1 draws earlier on Sunday, away to Alaves and Girona respectively. Villarreal, meanwhile, stay 17th, with the pressure mounting on coach Javier Calleja, who has overseen only one league win since September. Alena, a dainty attacking midfielder with 13 years training in Barca's academy, is likely to enjoy many more celebrations in front of the club's fans but for Dembele, the sense was time had been running out. Valverde's patience with the 21-year-old appeared to be wearing thin when he was dropped against Real Betis three weeks ago but a late equaliser against Atletico earned a reprieve, and this was another lively performance. "He played a great game and was one of our outstanding players," Valverde said. "He has so many assets - penetration, dribbling, shooting, speed, confidence, daring. Let's hope it continues like this." Heartening too for Valverde will have been the clean sheet, Barcelona's first in the league since the second game of the season back in August. An early Dembele shot might have gone in had it not been blocked by Santiago Caseres before the Frenchman turned provider, picking out Pique with a perfectly judged cross. Pique held off Victor Ruiz, perhaps even too vigorously, and headed in. Villarreal, however, remained in touch, literally, as Pique was lucky to escape a harsher punishment when he threw a hand into Gerard Moreno's face. When Moreno was substituted he made sure to mutter towards Pique on his way off. Barca finally put the result beyond doubt as Messi's brilliant pass from deep freed Alena, who chipped Sergio Asenjo like he had scored dozens of goals like this rather than just his first. Little over 100 kilometres away in Catalonia, Atletico Madrid's troubles away from home had continued as they needed Diego Costa to help them snatch a late equaliser against Girona. Costa's excellent run and first touch panicked Girona's Jonas Ramalho into poking into his own net at Montilivi after the in-form Cristhian Stuani had fired the hosts ahead from the penalty spot. Avoiding defeat was enough to put a smile on Diego Simeone's face at full-time but his side have now won only once in seven league matches on the road this season. "La Liga is barbaric," Simeone said afterwards. "There are no easy opponents." Girona are seventh, with Stuani leading the way. His goal from the spot was his 12th of the campaign and enough to leave him top of the scoring charts, ahead of Iago Aspas and Messi. Sevilla could have reclaimed their place at the summit but instead became the latest side to be thwarted at Mendizorrotza. Alaves stormed ahead when Sevilla's Sergi Gomez played Jonathan Calleri onside by feathering the ball on its way through, with Jony waiting to finish at the back post. Sevilla were incensed but still left with a point thanks to a smart finish from Wissam Ben Yedder. Alaves stay fourth, with the draw ensuring only two of the table's top six - Barca and Real Madrid - managed to win this weekend.

Barcelona defeat Villarreal to go on top of Lal Liga table

Atletico Madrid threw away the chance to go top of La Liga by conceding a late equaliser to draw 1-1 away to neighbours Leganes on Saturday as their miserable run at the Madrid minnows dragged on.

France forward Antoine Griezmann had given Diego Simeone's side the lead with a sizzling free-kick in the 69th minute in a typically tight game at the Butarque stadium.

But Leganes hit back when striker Guido Carillo stabbed a loose ball over the line in the 82nd after full back Rodrigo Tarin's cross thumped off the underside of the bar.

Atletico have failed to win their three games at Leganes since the latter were promoted to the top flight for the first time in 2016, drawing their last two outings at Butarque 0-0.

Atleti are second with 20 points, one point behind champions Barcelona who visit Rayo Vallecano later on Saturday.

Atletico Madrid threw away the chance to go top of La Liga by conceding a late equaliser to draw 1-1 away to neighbours Leganes on Saturday as their miserable run at the Madrid minnows dragged on.

Atletico Madrid threw away the chance to go top of La Liga by conceding a late equaliser to draw 1-1 away to neighbours Leganes on Saturday as their miserable run at the Madrid minnows dragged on. France forward Antoine Griezmann had given Diego Simeone's side the lead with a sizzling free-kick in the 69th minute in a typically tight game at the Butarque stadium. But Leganes hit back when striker Guido Carillo stabbed a loose ball over the line in the 82nd after full back Rodrigo Tarin's cross thumped off the underside of the bar. Atletico have failed to win their three games at Leganes since the latter were promoted to the top flight for the first time in 2016, drawing their last two outings at Butarque 0-0. Atleti are second with 20 points, one point behind champions Barcelona who visit Rayo Vallecano later on Saturday.

Atletico blow chance to top La Liga after draw at Leganes

Barcelona drew 1-1 at Valencia after Real Madrid lost 1-0 away to Alaves, allowing Sevilla to go top of La Liga with a 2-1 home win over Celta Vigo on Sunday.

Here are five talking points from the weekend's La Liga action.

Pass king Arthur Barca's new style guardian

Even though Arthur Melo is just 22 and arrived from Gremio in the close season he already appears to have nailed the Barcelona style, playing as if he had been at La Masia all his life.

Barca were held 1-1 at Valencia on Sunday, a disappointing fourth game without a win in La Liga, but Arthur stood out for an impressive midfield display.

The Brazilian helped Barcelona keep the ball, dominating possession and taking the sting out of the game after a fierce Valencia onslaught in the opening stages.

Arthur attempted more passes at an away ground (142) than any player since Xavi Hernandez in 2012 at Levante (148), with 135 finding their targets.

Comparisons to the Barcelona legend have already been drawn and even though Arthur has a long way to go to reach those heights he has made an impressive start.

Madrid's impotence in front of goal

Over the years Real Madrid have been known for their array of attacking talent but for the first time since April 1985 they have gone four matches without scoring.

Julen Lopetegui's side let in a late goal to fall to a 1-0 defeat against Alaves at Mendizorroza and have not found the net in almost seven hours across all competitions.

Real's all-time top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo joined Juventus in July and nobody has taken his throne, with Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema struggling to match the Portuguese’s output.

With only two matches to go before Madrid face Barcelona at the Nou Camp in the first Clasico of the season, Los Blancos need to find their shooting boots quickly.

Simeone wins style clash against Real Betis

Diego Simeone’s durable Atletico Madrid met Quique Setien’s Real Betis on Sunday, a match between two sides with vastly different styles.

As usual, Atletico relied on their solid defence while visitors Betis’s possession game saw them keep the ball for much of the encounter.

However the outcome was decided when Simeone brought on striker Angel Correa, a player Spanish newspaper Marca described as the ultimate ‘antithesis’ of Betis.

The Argentine forward, "a direct, anarchic, chaotic player," drilled home the only goal to ensure Atletico moved third, ahead of rivals Real.

Correa takes risks and surrenders the ball easily but his explosive impact ensured pragmatism won out over possession at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Ambitious Espanyol huge at home

Now fifth in the table, Espanyol are exceeding expectations and, following a 3-1 win over Villarreal on Sunday, they are the only team to have won all four of their home matches.

Rubi’s side are playing good football and even though only 20,000 fans attended the game at their 40,000 capacity RCDE Stadium, they have been particularly good there.

Espanyol are only two points behind leaders Sevilla and while a title challenge is a long shot, midfielder Sergi Darder’s comments at the start of the season are starting to look less strange.

"We must try to win La Liga," said Darder. "We know that it's 99.9 per cent impossible, but we need to set ambitious objectives. There will be time to consider ourselves a normal team, but for now, we believe we are the best."

Sarabia stars as Sevilla emerge aloft&nbsp;

La Liga is more open than it has been for years and after eight games Pablo Machin`s Sevilla lead by one point.

On Saturday Real Madrid, Barcelona and Alaves were level on points before Atletico moved top on Sunday before being replaced by Sevilla who beat visitors Celta Vigo 2-1.

Barcelona had the chance to install themselves as the new leaders later on Sunday but failed to win at Valencia.

Machin has taken little time to get his ideas across at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan and his namesake Pablo Sarabia has been a big beneficiary.

The midfielder, who netted the opener against Celta, has hit nine goals in all competitions this season, more than any player in Spain bar Barcelona`s Lionel Messi.

Barcelona drew 1-1 at Valencia after Real Madrid lost 1-0 away to Alaves, allowing Sevilla to go top of La Liga with a 2-1 home win over Celta Vigo on Sunday. Here are five talking points from the weekend's La Liga action.

Barcelona drew 1-1 at Valencia after Real Madrid lost 1-0 away to Alaves, allowing Sevilla to go top of La Liga with a 2-1 home win over Celta Vigo on Sunday. Here are five talking points from the weekend's La Liga action. Pass king Arthur Barca's new style guardian Even though Arthur Melo is just 22 and arrived from Gremio in the close season he already appears to have nailed the Barcelona style, playing as if he had been at La Masia all his life. Barca were held 1-1 at Valencia on Sunday, a disappointing fourth game without a win in La Liga, but Arthur stood out for an impressive midfield display. The Brazilian helped Barcelona keep the ball, dominating possession and taking the sting out of the game after a fierce Valencia onslaught in the opening stages. Arthur attempted more passes at an away ground (142) than any player since Xavi Hernandez in 2012 at Levante (148), with 135 finding their targets. Comparisons to the Barcelona legend have already been drawn and even though Arthur has a long way to go to reach those heights he has made an impressive start. Madrid's impotence in front of goal Over the years Real Madrid have been known for their array of attacking talent but for the first time since April 1985 they have gone four matches without scoring. Julen Lopetegui's side let in a late goal to fall to a 1-0 defeat against Alaves at Mendizorroza and have not found the net in almost seven hours across all competitions. Real's all-time top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo joined Juventus in July and nobody has taken his throne, with Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema struggling to match the Portuguese’s output. With only two matches to go before Madrid face Barcelona at the Nou Camp in the first Clasico of the season, Los Blancos need to find their shooting boots quickly. Simeone wins style clash against Real Betis Diego Simeone’s durable Atletico Madrid met Quique Setien’s Real Betis on Sunday, a match between two sides with vastly different styles. As usual, Atletico relied on their solid defence while visitors Betis’s possession game saw them keep the ball for much of the encounter. However the outcome was decided when Simeone brought on striker Angel Correa, a player Spanish newspaper Marca described as the ultimate ‘antithesis’ of Betis. The Argentine forward, "a direct, anarchic, chaotic player," drilled home the only goal to ensure Atletico moved third, ahead of rivals Real. Correa takes risks and surrenders the ball easily but his explosive impact ensured pragmatism won out over possession at the Wanda Metropolitano. Ambitious Espanyol huge at home Now fifth in the table, Espanyol are exceeding expectations and, following a 3-1 win over Villarreal on Sunday, they are the only team to have won all four of their home matches. Rubi’s side are playing good football and even though only 20,000 fans attended the game at their 40,000 capacity RCDE Stadium, they have been particularly good there. Espanyol are only two points behind leaders Sevilla and while a title challenge is a long shot, midfielder Sergi Darder’s comments at the start of the season are starting to look less strange. "We must try to win La Liga," said Darder. "We know that it's 99.9 per cent impossible, but we need to set ambitious objectives. There will be time to consider ourselves a normal team, but for now, we believe we are the best." Sarabia stars as Sevilla emerge aloft La Liga is more open than it has been for years and after eight games Pablo Machin`s Sevilla lead by one point. On Saturday Real Madrid, Barcelona and Alaves were level on points before Atletico moved top on Sunday before being replaced by Sevilla who beat visitors Celta Vigo 2-1. Barcelona had the chance to install themselves as the new leaders later on Sunday but failed to win at Valencia. Machin has taken little time to get his ideas across at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan and his namesake Pablo Sarabia has been a big beneficiary. The midfielder, who netted the opener against Celta, has hit nine goals in all competitions this season, more than any player in Spain bar Barcelona`s Lionel Messi.

Five talking points from the weekend in La Liga

Goalkeepers keep Madrid derby scoreless, 0-0

La Liga champions Barcelona's domestic struggles continued as they dropped points for the third game in a row, drawing 1-1 at home to Athletic Bilbao on Saturday after Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets had begun the match on the substitutes' bench.

Substitute Munir El Haddadi averted a first home defeat for Barca in more than two years by sliding in an equaliser in the 84th minute, meeting a cross by Messi who had been sent on along with Busquets in the second half as Barca chased the game.

Oscar de Marcos had given Athletic a deserved lead in the 41st minute with a volley after Inaki Williams had missed two clear chances to score for the Basque side, who had not picked up a point at the Nou Camp since 2004 when current Barca coach Ernesto Valverde was in charge.

Barca are top of the table with 14 points after seven games but will lose their lead if Real Madrid beat Atletico Madrid in a city derby later on Saturday.

Despite drawing at home to Girona and losing at minnows Leganes after starting without key first-teamers such as Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Samuel Umtiti, Barca coach Valverde made the eye-catching decision to field a team without midfield anchor Busquets and all-time top scorer Messi.

The Catalans made a strong start and had an early penalty appeal waved away when Philippe Coutinho went over in the area but Athletic, who were beaten 3-0 at home by Villarreal in mid-week, soon started to put their stamp on the game.

Williams narrowly missed the target as he struck a bouncing ball around the area and the forward later rounded Marc-Andre ter Stegen but failed to capitalise.

Barca had sporadic chances down the other end, as Suarez struck wide from a free kick and was then thwarted by goalkeeper Unai Simon at point blank range, but Athletic made it third time lucky when De Marcos slid to convert Markel Susaeta’s cross.

Messi was brought on 10 minutes into the second period to a rousing reception from the home fans and Barca’s play instantly improved, with the Argentine smashing a shot against the post and narrowly firing wide, after Coutinho had struck the crossbar.

Athletic’s resistance finally caved in when Munir turned in Messi’s low cross and Ivan Rakitic had a final chance to win it late on for the Catalans, but sent the ball flying over the bar.

La Liga champions Barcelona's domestic struggles continued as they dropped points for the third game in a row, drawing 1-1 at home to Athletic Bilbao on Saturday after Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets had begun the match on the substitutes' bench.

La Liga champions Barcelona's domestic struggles continued as they dropped points for the third game in a row, drawing 1-1 at home to Athletic Bilbao on Saturday after Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets had begun the match on the substitutes' bench. Substitute Munir El Haddadi averted a first home defeat for Barca in more than two years by sliding in an equaliser in the 84th minute, meeting a cross by Messi who had been sent on along with Busquets in the second half as Barca chased the game. Oscar de Marcos had given Athletic a deserved lead in the 41st minute with a volley after Inaki Williams had missed two clear chances to score for the Basque side, who had not picked up a point at the Nou Camp since 2004 when current Barca coach Ernesto Valverde was in charge. Barca are top of the table with 14 points after seven games but will lose their lead if Real Madrid beat Atletico Madrid in a city derby later on Saturday. Despite drawing at home to Girona and losing at minnows Leganes after starting without key first-teamers such as Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba and Samuel Umtiti, Barca coach Valverde made the eye-catching decision to field a team without midfield anchor Busquets and all-time top scorer Messi. The Catalans made a strong start and had an early penalty appeal waved away when Philippe Coutinho went over in the area but Athletic, who were beaten 3-0 at home by Villarreal in mid-week, soon started to put their stamp on the game. Williams narrowly missed the target as he struck a bouncing ball around the area and the forward later rounded Marc-Andre ter Stegen but failed to capitalise. Barca had sporadic chances down the other end, as Suarez struck wide from a free kick and was then thwarted by goalkeeper Unai Simon at point blank range, but Athletic made it third time lucky when De Marcos slid to convert Markel Susaeta’s cross. Messi was brought on 10 minutes into the second period to a rousing reception from the home fans and Barca’s play instantly improved, with the Argentine smashing a shot against the post and narrowly firing wide, after Coutinho had struck the crossbar. Athletic’s resistance finally caved in when Munir turned in Messi’s low cross and Ivan Rakitic had a final chance to win it late on for the Catalans, but sent the ball flying over the bar.

Football: Barcalona's struggles continue with home draw to Athletic Bilbao

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in a 3-1 win over Leganes on Saturday which took the Catalans 12 points clear at the top of La Liga and also meant they equalled a Spanish top-flight record of 38 games without defeat.

Messi curled in from a free kick to break the deadlock in the 27th minute. Five minutes later the Argentine doubled the lead, taking one touch to control a through ball from Philippe Coutinho before delivering a cool low finish.

Nabil El Zhar pulled a goal back for 14th-placed Leganes in the 68th minute. However, Messi made sure&nbsp;Barca&nbsp;kept all the points by hitting his third with three minutes left, controlling the ball on his chest and calmly chipping goalkeeper Ivan Cuellar from close range.

Barca&nbsp;have not lost in the league since going down 2-0 at Malaga on April 8 last year and the win saw them match Real Sociedad's unbeaten run between 1979 and 1980. Ernesto Valverde's side are also undefeated in the Champions League this campaign.

"It's a historic record which gives you an idea of how competitive the team is," Valverde told a news conference, stressing that the record also belongs to predecessor Luis Enrique, who oversaw the first seven games of the unbeaten run at the end of last season.

"I can't explain how we have done it, all we try and do is focus on always winning the next game."

The Catalans are top of La Liga with 79 points after 31 games and have a 12-point advantage over second-placed Atletico Madrid, who visit champions Real Madrid in a local derby on Sunday.

Despite the huge margin his side have at the top, Valverde continued to resist talk about his side being champions-elect.

"When you start to feel like you are the champions, that's the moment you begin to make a mistake," he said.

"We still haven't won anything and there's still a danger we won't win it. We have to keep fighting until the end, just like our other rivals."

Sevilla suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat at Celta Vigo as their former striker Iago Aspas struck a hat-trick in a rampant second-half display.

Spain forward Aspas scored all his goals in the space of 21 minutes, taking his La Liga goal tally this season to 19.

Sevilla's 20-year-old defender Guilherme Arana bundled the ball into his own net to put the home side ahead towards the end of the first half and Vincenzo Montella's side fell apart after the interval.

Sevilla are seventh in the standings and will drop down to eighth and out of the European places if Girona win at Real Sociedad on Sunday.

Real Betis climbed up to fifth and edged closer to a return to European football next season by beating Eibar 2-0 at home, while Alaves beat Getafe 2-0.

Barca are now unbeaten in 38 games, matching Real Sociedad's unbeaten run between 1979 and 1980

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in a 3-1 win over Leganes on Saturday which took the Catalans 12 points clear at the top of La Liga and also meant they equalled a Spanish top-flight record of 38 games without defeat. Messi curled in from a free kick to break the deadlock in the 27th minute. Five minutes later the Argentine doubled the lead, taking one touch to control a through ball from Philippe Coutinho before delivering a cool low finish. Nabil El Zhar pulled a goal back for 14th-placed Leganes in the 68th minute. However, Messi made sure Barca kept all the points by hitting his third with three minutes left, controlling the ball on his chest and calmly chipping goalkeeper Ivan Cuellar from close range. Barca have not lost in the league since going down 2-0 at Malaga on April 8 last year and the win saw them match Real Sociedad's unbeaten run between 1979 and 1980. Ernesto Valverde's side are also undefeated in the Champions League this campaign. "It's a historic record which gives you an idea of how competitive the team is," Valverde told a news conference, stressing that the record also belongs to predecessor Luis Enrique, who oversaw the first seven games of the unbeaten run at the end of last season. "I can't explain how we have done it, all we try and do is focus on always winning the next game." The Catalans are top of La Liga with 79 points after 31 games and have a 12-point advantage over second-placed Atletico Madrid, who visit champions Real Madrid in a local derby on Sunday. Despite the huge margin his side have at the top, Valverde continued to resist talk about his side being champions-elect. "When you start to feel like you are the champions, that's the moment you begin to make a mistake," he said. "We still haven't won anything and there's still a danger we won't win it. We have to keep fighting until the end, just like our other rivals." Sevilla suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat at Celta Vigo as their former striker Iago Aspas struck a hat-trick in a rampant second-half display. Spain forward Aspas scored all his goals in the space of 21 minutes, taking his La Liga goal tally this season to 19. Sevilla's 20-year-old defender Guilherme Arana bundled the ball into his own net to put the home side ahead towards the end of the first half and Vincenzo Montella's side fell apart after the interval. Sevilla are seventh in the standings and will drop down to eighth and out of the European places if Girona win at Real Sociedad on Sunday. Real Betis climbed up to fifth and edged closer to a return to European football next season by beating Eibar 2-0 at home, while Alaves beat Getafe 2-0.

Messi scores hat-trick, Barca equal La Liga unbeaten record

Cristiano Ronaldo continued his scorching scoring run by bagging four goals in&nbsp;Real&nbsp;Madrid&#39;s hugely entertaining 6-3 La Liga win over Girona on Sunday.

Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a deadly first-time finish but former Middlesbrough forward Cristhian Stuani headed home from a corner to draw the Catalans level in the 29th minute.

The Portuguese restored his side&#39;s lead at the start of the second half by racing on to a through ball from Karim Benzema and hammering it in off the crossbar. He then laid on a pass for Lucas Vazquez to score&nbsp;Real&#39;s third.

Ronaldo gobbled up a rebounded shot from Benzema to complete his hat-trick in the 64th and make it 4-1, while substitute Gareth Bale added a fifth in the 86th after Stuani had struck again down the other end.

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???? &iexcl;<a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> est&aacute; &#39;on fire&#39;! 
⚽ 11&#39; 
⚽ 47&#39; 
⚽ 64&#39; 
⚽ 90&#39;+1&#39;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RMLiga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RMLiga</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HalaMadrid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HalaMadrid</a> <a href="https://t.co/RgpasRR4Zb">pic.twitter.com/RgpasRR4Zb</a>
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Girona&#39;s Juanpe then made it 5-3, only for Ronaldo to roar back in injury time and score his fourth goal of the game, his 17th in his last eight appearances in all competitions.

Ronaldo has now netted 22 times in the league this season, trailing Barcelona&#39;s Lionel Messi by just three goals.

&quot;Cristiano is very important to us, he transmits an incredible amount of energy for the team,&quot;&nbsp;RealMadrid&nbsp;coach Zinedine Zidane told reporters.

&quot;Cristiano is three goals from Messi and I hope he can become the top scorer because it&#39;s very important to him. When Cristiano plays well the team plays well.

&quot;Cristiano&#39;s ambition is tremendous. But I also want to highlight the work of his team mates, who help him a lot. We scored some spectacular goals today which was down to the whole team.&quot;

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6⃣⚽ &iexcl;Gran noche en el Bernab&eacute;u! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RMLiga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RMLiga</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HalaMadrid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HalaMadrid</a> <a href="https://t.co/8aATyDZB8X">pic.twitter.com/8aATyDZB8X</a>
&mdash; Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadrid/status/975490555982598145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Ronaldo&#39;s goal rush helped him to leapfrog Luis Suarez into second place on the Liga&#39;s top scorer&#39;s list, with the Barca forward missing his side&#39;s 2-0 win over Athletic Bilbao on Sunday due to suspension.

Real&nbsp;are third in the Liga standings on 60 points, 15 behind runaway leaders Barcelona and four adrift of second-placed Atletico, who were beaten 2-1 at Villarreal&nbsp;on Sunday.

&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo continued his scorching scoring run by bagging four goals in Real Madrid's hugely entertaining 6-3 La Liga win over Girona on Sunday

Cristiano Ronaldo continued his scorching scoring run by bagging four goals in Real Madrid's hugely entertaining 6-3 La Liga win over Girona on Sunday. Ronaldo opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a deadly first-time finish but former Middlesbrough forward Cristhian Stuani headed home from a corner to draw the Catalans level in the 29th minute. The Portuguese restored his side's lead at the start of the second half by racing on to a through ball from Karim Benzema and hammering it in off the crossbar. He then laid on a pass for Lucas Vazquez to score Real's third. Ronaldo gobbled up a rebounded shot from Benzema to complete his hat-trick in the 64th and make it 4-1, while substitute Gareth Bale added a fifth in the 86th after Stuani had struck again down the other end. ???? ¡@Cristiano está 'on fire'! ⚽ 11' ⚽ 47' ⚽ 64' ⚽ 90'+1'#RMLiga | #HalaMadrid pic.twitter.com/RgpasRR4Zb — Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) March 18, 2018 × Girona's Juanpe then made it 5-3, only for Ronaldo to roar back in injury time and score his fourth goal of the game, his 17th in his last eight appearances in all competitions. Ronaldo has now netted 22 times in the league this season, trailing Barcelona's Lionel Messi by just three goals. "Cristiano is very important to us, he transmits an incredible amount of energy for the team," RealMadrid coach Zinedine Zidane told reporters. "Cristiano is three goals from Messi and I hope he can become the top scorer because it's very important to him. When Cristiano plays well the team plays well. "Cristiano's ambition is tremendous. But I also want to highlight the work of his team mates, who help him a lot. We scored some spectacular goals today which was down to the whole team." 6⃣⚽ ¡Gran noche en el Bernabéu! #RMLiga | #HalaMadrid pic.twitter.com/8aATyDZB8X — Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) March 18, 2018 × Ronaldo's goal rush helped him to leapfrog Luis Suarez into second place on the Liga's top scorer's list, with the Barca forward missing his side's 2-0 win over Athletic Bilbao on Sunday due to suspension. Real are third in the Liga standings on 60 points, 15 behind runaway leaders Barcelona and four adrift of second-placed Atletico, who were beaten 2-1 at Villarreal on Sunday.

La Liga: Ronaldo hits four as Real Madrid beat Girona

Barcelona moved 11 points clear at the top of La Liga on Sunday after beating Athletic Bilbao 2-0 at home with a goal from Paco Alcacer and a thumping strike from Lionel Messi in the first half.

Alcacer took the place of suspended striker Luis Suarez in the starting line-up and scored a first goal in three months to put Barca ahead in the eighth minute, side-footing home a pass from Jordi Alba after Messi had cut in from the left.

The Argentine scored for the sixth game in a row in all competitions and for the 25th time in this league campaign when he doubled Barca&#39;s lead in the 30th minute with a deadly strike into the bottom corner from the edge of the area.

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⏰ Final whistle! 
FC Barcelona 2-0 Athletic Club 
⚽ Alc&aacute;cer and Messi 
???????????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bar%C3%A7aAthletic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bar&ccedil;aAthletic</a> <a href="https://t.co/Chvqy0YjYW">pic.twitter.com/Chvqy0YjYW</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/975419594440691712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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???? Best photos from the win over Athletic ???? <a href="https://t.co/cvSLLTjxLu">https://t.co/cvSLLTjxLu</a> ???????? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bar%C3%A7aAthletic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bar&ccedil;aAthletic</a> <a href="https://t.co/ExI4sWte9z">pic.twitter.com/ExI4sWte9z</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/975451807064514560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Barca lead the standings on 75 points, 11 ahead of nearest challengers Atletico Madrid who were visiting Villarreal later on Sunday, with champions Real Madrid hosting Girona.

The Catalans were missing injured midfield linchpin Sergio Busquets as well as Suarez. However, they were rampant in the first half and could have taken a heavier lead into the break as Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho hit the woodwork twice and his compatriot Paulinho struck a post.

The unbeaten league leaders slowed down in the second half and Athletic came into the game for the first time but despite numerous forays into Barca&#39;s area they rarely got close to troubling goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.

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???? <a href="https://twitter.com/LaLiga?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LaLiga</a> 
???????? <a href="https://t.co/tXlafQ7Sw7">pic.twitter.com/tXlafQ7Sw7</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/975493321509474304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Barcelona moved 11 points clear at the top of La Liga on Sunday after beating Athletic Bilbao 2-0

Barcelona moved 11 points clear at the top of La Liga on Sunday after beating Athletic Bilbao 2-0 at home with a goal from Paco Alcacer and a thumping strike from Lionel Messi in the first half. Alcacer took the place of suspended striker Luis Suarez in the starting line-up and scored a first goal in three months to put Barca ahead in the eighth minute, side-footing home a pass from Jordi Alba after Messi had cut in from the left. The Argentine scored for the sixth game in a row in all competitions and for the 25th time in this league campaign when he doubled Barca's lead in the 30th minute with a deadly strike into the bottom corner from the edge of the area. ⏰ Final whistle! FC Barcelona 2-0 Athletic Club ⚽ Alcácer and Messi ???????????? #ForçaBarça #BarçaAthletic pic.twitter.com/Chvqy0YjYW — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 18, 2018 × ???? Best photos from the win over Athletic ???? https://t.co/cvSLLTjxLu ???????? #BarçaAthletic pic.twitter.com/ExI4sWte9z — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 18, 2018 × Barca lead the standings on 75 points, 11 ahead of nearest challengers Atletico Madrid who were visiting Villarreal later on Sunday, with champions Real Madrid hosting Girona. The Catalans were missing injured midfield linchpin Sergio Busquets as well as Suarez. However, they were rampant in the first half and could have taken a heavier lead into the break as Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho hit the woodwork twice and his compatriot Paulinho struck a post. The unbeaten league leaders slowed down in the second half and Athletic came into the game for the first time but despite numerous forays into Barca's area they rarely got close to troubling goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen. ???? @LaLiga ???????? pic.twitter.com/tXlafQ7Sw7 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 18, 2018 ×

La Liga: Messi magic prevails as Barcelona beat Athletic Bilbao

Barcelona were held to a 1-1 draw at relegation-fighting Las Palmas on Thursday in an unexpected setback that left them with a five-point lead in La Liga ahead of their top-of-the-table showdown with Atletico Madrid this weekend.

Lionel Messi fired Barca ahead in the 21st minute with a thunderous free-kick into the top corner but third-bottom Las Palmas pulled themselves back into the game with a penalty by Jonathan Calleri three minutes into the second half.

The Argentine forward sidefooted the spot kick into the top corner after stand-in defender Lucas Digne was judged to have handled the ball after it hit the post, the first time Barca have given away a spot kick in the league for over two years.

The Catalans had little fortune with refereeing decisions and their players and coach Ernesto Valverde were furious when Las Palmas goalkeeper Leandro Chichizola was not punished for appearing to handle the ball outside of the area.

Barca have 66 points and lead the table from Atletico, who visit the Nou Camp on Sunday having won their last eight games in all competitions. Barca have drawn four of their last eight. Third-placed Real Madrid have 51 points with Valencia on 50.

Valverde told reporters he still did not know if the penalty had been given for Digne&#39;s handball or a foul and the usually pragmatic coach could not hide his despair at the decision.

&quot;The penalty came as a shock to us because of how it was awarded. We felt that they equalised with an &#39;invisible&#39; penalty, they grew stronger after that and we played in too much of a hurry,&quot; the agitated Valverde said.

&quot;We really wanted to leave here with three points. In the first half we felt we were always creating danger and their players kept on picking up yellow cards. We went ahead in the first half but it was not a big enough margin.&quot;

Las Palmas coach Paco Jemez snapped a miserable run of eight consecutive defeats to Barca from when he was in charge of Rayo Vallecano and said his team were slowly but surely finding their feet in their fight against the drop.

&quot;Right now we sure are playing like a team, we&#39;re able to help each other out and keep fighting until the last minute,&quot; he said. &quot;We&#39;re still not creating as many chances as we are capable of but I&#39;m seeing signs of progress.

&quot;Taking a point against Barca gives us more belief than if it was any old point,&quot; he added. 
&nbsp;

Lionel Messi fired Barca ahead in the 21st minute with a thunderous free-kick into the top corner but third-bottom Las Palmas pulled themselves back into the game with a penalty by Jonathan Calleri three minutes into the second half.

Barcelona were held to a 1-1 draw at relegation-fighting Las Palmas on Thursday in an unexpected setback that left them with a five-point lead in La Liga ahead of their top-of-the-table showdown with Atletico Madrid this weekend. Lionel Messi fired Barca ahead in the 21st minute with a thunderous free-kick into the top corner but third-bottom Las Palmas pulled themselves back into the game with a penalty by Jonathan Calleri three minutes into the second half. The Argentine forward sidefooted the spot kick into the top corner after stand-in defender Lucas Digne was judged to have handled the ball after it hit the post, the first time Barca have given away a spot kick in the league for over two years. The Catalans had little fortune with refereeing decisions and their players and coach Ernesto Valverde were furious when Las Palmas goalkeeper Leandro Chichizola was not punished for appearing to handle the ball outside of the area. Barca have 66 points and lead the table from Atletico, who visit the Nou Camp on Sunday having won their last eight games in all competitions. Barca have drawn four of their last eight. Third-placed Real Madrid have 51 points with Valencia on 50. Valverde told reporters he still did not know if the penalty had been given for Digne's handball or a foul and the usually pragmatic coach could not hide his despair at the decision. "The penalty came as a shock to us because of how it was awarded. We felt that they equalised with an 'invisible' penalty, they grew stronger after that and we played in too much of a hurry," the agitated Valverde said. "We really wanted to leave here with three points. In the first half we felt we were always creating danger and their players kept on picking up yellow cards. We went ahead in the first half but it was not a big enough margin." Las Palmas coach Paco Jemez snapped a miserable run of eight consecutive defeats to Barca from when he was in charge of Rayo Vallecano and said his team were slowly but surely finding their feet in their fight against the drop. "Right now we sure are playing like a team, we're able to help each other out and keep fighting until the last minute," he said. "We're still not creating as many chances as we are capable of but I'm seeing signs of progress. "Taking a point against Barca gives us more belief than if it was any old point," he added.

La Liga: Barcelona lead by five points after draw at Las Palmas

Former Chelsea striker Loic Remy has said Las Palmas coach Paco Jemez treated him &quot;like a piece of shit&quot; in removing him from the struggling La Liga side&#39;s squad for arriving one minute late to a team dinner.

Remy is the leading scorer for the basement club this season with five league goals, but has not featured since December 20 and has been excluded from every matchday squad since Jemez took charge on December 27.

Remy, who was banished by Jemez alongside Moroccan forward Oussama Tannane, is currently in France and said he would not return to Las Palmas.

&quot;The coach treated me like a piece of shit when all this happened,&quot; Remy said in an interview with newspaper La Provincia published on Friday.

&quot;I never expected to be in France now, I expected to be playing and scoring goals for my team and trying to get them out of this bad situation,&quot; added Remy, who also played for Newcastle United and Queens Park Rangers among other clubs and is a former France international.

Las Palmas did not respond to requests to comment.

Jemez, who has coached Rayo Vallecano and Granada in the Spanish top flight and joined Las Palmas from Mexican side Cruz Azul, is the team&#39;s third coach this season after Manolo Marquez resigned in September and Pako Ayestaran was sacked in November.

Remy said the coach&#39;s decision to exclude him from the squad was an unjustified punishment for a minor disciplinary issue.

&quot;Tannane and I were in the hotel and we arrived late to the dinner, one minute late. We have no excuse because as professionals we need to be on time but it&#39;s also no excuse for a coach to kick two players out like this,&quot; he said.

&quot;The coach spoke to the president and he came to speak to us but he (Jemez) didn&#39;t have enough balls to stand up to me and tell me why he didn&#39;t want me.&quot;

Jemez made headlines three seasons ago for declaring Zinedine Zidane should not have been allowed to take charge of Real Madrid&#39;s reserve team as he had not completed his coaching licence.

In his first news conference with Las Palmas, Jemez pledged to rid the team of disciplinary problems but he has lost his first two league games in charge, with his side being thrashed 6-0 by Girona last Saturday.

Remy is the leading scorer for the basement club this season with five league goals, but has not featured since December 20 and has been excluded from every matchday squad since Jemez took charge on December 27

Former Chelsea striker Loic Remy has said Las Palmas coach Paco Jemez treated him "like a piece of shit" in removing him from the struggling La Liga side's squad for arriving one minute late to a team dinner. Remy is the leading scorer for the basement club this season with five league goals, but has not featured since December 20 and has been excluded from every matchday squad since Jemez took charge on December 27. Remy, who was banished by Jemez alongside Moroccan forward Oussama Tannane, is currently in France and said he would not return to Las Palmas. "The coach treated me like a piece of shit when all this happened," Remy said in an interview with newspaper La Provincia published on Friday. "I never expected to be in France now, I expected to be playing and scoring goals for my team and trying to get them out of this bad situation," added Remy, who also played for Newcastle United and Queens Park Rangers among other clubs and is a former France international. Las Palmas did not respond to requests to comment. Jemez, who has coached Rayo Vallecano and Granada in the Spanish top flight and joined Las Palmas from Mexican side Cruz Azul, is the team's third coach this season after Manolo Marquez resigned in September and Pako Ayestaran was sacked in November. Remy said the coach's decision to exclude him from the squad was an unjustified punishment for a minor disciplinary issue. "Tannane and I were in the hotel and we arrived late to the dinner, one minute late. We have no excuse because as professionals we need to be on time but it's also no excuse for a coach to kick two players out like this," he said. "The coach spoke to the president and he came to speak to us but he (Jemez) didn't have enough balls to stand up to me and tell me why he didn't want me." Jemez made headlines three seasons ago for declaring Zinedine Zidane should not have been allowed to take charge of Real Madrid's reserve team as he had not completed his coaching licence. In his first news conference with Las Palmas, Jemez pledged to rid the team of disciplinary problems but he has lost his first two league games in charge, with his side being thrashed 6-0 by Girona last Saturday.

Las Palmas coach 'treated me like piece of shit': Former Chelsea striker

FC Barcelona signed Colombia centre-back&nbsp;Yerry&nbsp;Mina to strengthen its defence. Y. Mina joined Barcelona from Brazilian side Palmeiras on Thursday on a five-year deal for a fee of 11.8 million euros ($14mn), the Catalan club announced.

He was officially presented at Camp Nou, in front of the Barca fans on Saturday.

The 6ft 5in (1.95m) 23-year-old is set to fill the void left by Javier Mascherano, who is on the verge of a 10mn euro switch to China&#39;s Hebei Fortune.

The Colombian international will be Barcelona&#39;s second signing of the January transfer window after Philippe Coutinho&#39;s 160 million-euro capture from Liverpool.

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???????????? Yerry Mina ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BeBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BeBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/V10UqeehIE">pic.twitter.com/V10UqeehIE</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/952156906398863360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Mina has a 100mn euro release clause attached to his contract.

With Mascherano set to leave and injured young French centre-back Samuel Umtiti widely reported to be in talks with Manchester City, Barcelona had faced being left with only two recognised centre backs in Gerard Pique and Thomas Vermaelen.

&quot;I&#39;m in love with what I see. I hope to keep smiling here and to be able to succeed,&quot;&nbsp;said Yerry&nbsp;Mina.

After meeting Barca&#39;s legend Lionel Messi he said,&quot;Messi is the best in the world. I was struck by his humility - it was very special.&quot;

&quot;It&#39;s extraordinarily satisfying. I&#39;ve always worked to get what I have now. I want to make history at Bar&ccedil;a,&quot; he added.

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???? Yerry Mina: &quot;I&#39;m in love with what I see. I hope to keep smiling here and to be able to succeed.&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/For%C3%A7aBar%C3%A7a?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#For&ccedil;aBar&ccedil;a</a> <a href="https://t.co/1pvxtDch4B">pic.twitter.com/1pvxtDch4B</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/952169616826077185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Y. Mina joined Barcelona on a five-year contract for a fee of 11.8 million euros ($14mn)

FC Barcelona signed Colombia centre-back Yerry Mina to strengthen its defence. Y. Mina joined Barcelona from Brazilian side Palmeiras on Thursday on a five-year deal for a fee of 11.8 million euros ($14mn), the Catalan club announced. He was officially presented at Camp Nou, in front of the Barca fans on Saturday. The 6ft 5in (1.95m) 23-year-old is set to fill the void left by Javier Mascherano, who is on the verge of a 10mn euro switch to China's Hebei Fortune. The Colombian international will be Barcelona's second signing of the January transfer window after Philippe Coutinho's 160 million-euro capture from Liverpool. ???????????? Yerry Mina ????#BeBarça #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/V10UqeehIE — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 13, 2018 × Mina has a 100mn euro release clause attached to his contract. With Mascherano set to leave and injured young French centre-back Samuel Umtiti widely reported to be in talks with Manchester City, Barcelona had faced being left with only two recognised centre backs in Gerard Pique and Thomas Vermaelen. "I'm in love with what I see. I hope to keep smiling here and to be able to succeed," said Yerry Mina. After meeting Barca's legend Lionel Messi he said,"Messi is the best in the world. I was struck by his humility - it was very special." "It's extraordinarily satisfying. I've always worked to get what I have now. I want to make history at Barça," he added. ???? Yerry Mina: "I'm in love with what I see. I hope to keep smiling here and to be able to succeed." #ForçaBarça pic.twitter.com/1pvxtDch4B — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 13, 2018 ×

FC Barcelona officially unveils Yerry Mina

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Wednesday confirmed that he has signed a contract extension which will keep him at the European champions until 2020.

&quot;It&#39;s signed,&quot; said the French star after his side drew 2-2 with Numancia to progress to the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey 5-2 on aggregate.

After a dream start at Real, with eight trophies out of a possible 10, Zidane has endured a tough season with his side 16 points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race.

And the 45-year-old cautioned: &quot;I&#39;m enjoying what I do every day, because that&#39;s the way it is. I can&#39;t imagine myself as a coach in two, three years, because things are not like that. I know how it goes, nothing more, even with this contract it does not change anything.&quot;

On Wednesday, Real fielded an almost unrecognisable team and struggled into the Copa del Rey last-eight.

Zidane could afford to rest his superstars with one eye on La Liga and the Champions League last 16 with a clash against Paris Saint-Germain next month.

However, they were far from convincing at the Bernabeu. Lucas Vazquez scored both of Real&#39;s goals after the 11th and 59th minutes.

But on both occasions, their modest visitors fought back thanks to a brace from Guillermo on the stroke of half-time and then after 82 minutes.

Numancia ended the game with 10 men after captain Dani Calvo was red-carded in the dying moments.

Leganes, a modest club from the Madrid suburbs, reached the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey for the first time in their 89-year existence.

Despite losing 2-1 at Villarreal, who are currently sixth in La Liga, Leganes progressed on away goals having won the first leg 1-0. Moroccan international Nabil El Zhar scored the crucial away goal for mid-table Leganes on the half-hour mark.

In the night&#39;s other early second leg tie, last season&#39;s runners-up Alaves downed third division Formentera 2-0 for a 5-1 aggregate win.

On Thursday, three-time defending champions Barcelona host Celta Vigo with the two sides locked at 1-1.

Barca coach Ernesto Valverde insisted that despite the high-profile capture of Philippe Coutinho, who can&#39;t play for around three weeks due to a thigh injury, his team&#39;s character will not change with the Brazilian&#39;s arrival.

&quot;The Barca model will stay the same,&quot; he said Wednesday.

&quot;The club always has the chance to go into the market to buy the great players. But at the same time, Barca will continue to nurture young players at the training centre to maintain the style and identity.

&quot;That&#39;s still the case today.&quot;

After a dream start at Real, with eight trophies out of a possible 10, Zidane has endured a tough season with his side 16 points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane on Wednesday confirmed that he has signed a contract extension which will keep him at the European champions until 2020. "It's signed," said the French star after his side drew 2-2 with Numancia to progress to the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey 5-2 on aggregate. After a dream start at Real, with eight trophies out of a possible 10, Zidane has endured a tough season with his side 16 points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race. And the 45-year-old cautioned: "I'm enjoying what I do every day, because that's the way it is. I can't imagine myself as a coach in two, three years, because things are not like that. I know how it goes, nothing more, even with this contract it does not change anything." On Wednesday, Real fielded an almost unrecognisable team and struggled into the Copa del Rey last-eight. Zidane could afford to rest his superstars with one eye on La Liga and the Champions League last 16 with a clash against Paris Saint-Germain next month. However, they were far from convincing at the Bernabeu. Lucas Vazquez scored both of Real's goals after the 11th and 59th minutes. But on both occasions, their modest visitors fought back thanks to a brace from Guillermo on the stroke of half-time and then after 82 minutes. Numancia ended the game with 10 men after captain Dani Calvo was red-carded in the dying moments. Leganes, a modest club from the Madrid suburbs, reached the quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey for the first time in their 89-year existence. Despite losing 2-1 at Villarreal, who are currently sixth in La Liga, Leganes progressed on away goals having won the first leg 1-0. Moroccan international Nabil El Zhar scored the crucial away goal for mid-table Leganes on the half-hour mark. In the night's other early second leg tie, last season's runners-up Alaves downed third division Formentera 2-0 for a 5-1 aggregate win. On Thursday, three-time defending champions Barcelona host Celta Vigo with the two sides locked at 1-1. Barca coach Ernesto Valverde insisted that despite the high-profile capture of Philippe Coutinho, who can't play for around three weeks due to a thigh injury, his team's character will not change with the Brazilian's arrival. "The Barca model will stay the same," he said Wednesday. "The club always has the chance to go into the market to buy the great players. But at the same time, Barca will continue to nurture young players at the training centre to maintain the style and identity. "That's still the case today."

Zinedine Zidane pens new Real Madrid deal until 2020

Lionel Messi marked his 400th appearance in La Liga with the opening goal as Barcelona eased to a 3-0 win over struggling Levante at the Camp Nou on Sunday.

Messi&#39;s 365th goal in Spain&#39;s top flight came inside 12 minutes, with Luis Suarez adding the second before the interval and Paulinho completing the victory late on as Barcelona stretched their lead at the top of the table back to nine points over Atletico Madrid.

The Catalans are still unbeaten in La Liga this season and have Philippe Coutinho to come in, with the Brazilian expected to be officially unveiled as a Barcelona player on Monday following the announcement of his 160 million-euro ($192 million) move from Liverpool.

With all the talk ahead of this game on Coutinho, coach Ernesto Valverde was eager for his side to keep their focus on winning their first league outing since beating Real Madrid 3-0 in the Clasico on December 23.

&quot;Levante had not lost away since September. We were very good in the first half, but the rhythm was not the same in the second half,&quot; said Valverde.

Coutinho, whose transfer is the third-biggest in football history, was not in attendance at the Camp Nou as the club&#39;s previous record recruit Ousmane Dembele started.

The Frenchman, signed for 105 million euros from Borussia Dortmund at the start of the campaign, was included in the line-up here for the first time since tearing his hamstring nearly four months ago.

He came close to scoring on a couple of occasions, including from one 20-yard strike that was beaten away by Levante goalkeeper Oier Olazabal.

&quot;I think he has to bring something to the team, and he also has to face up to the competition for places and for the tackles he will face on the pitch, from opponents who don&#39;t want to let him past,&quot; said Valverde, who took Dembele off midway through the second half.

&quot;It is a process, but I thought he looked good and we still hope he can improve.&quot;

It was Messi who broke the deadlock from a Jordi Alba assist, a combination that has proved fruitful on so many occasions this season.

The Argentine&#39;s flighted pass found Alba, and the left-back headed the ball down for Messi, arriving in the area, to finish first-time in off the far post for his 16th league goal of the campaign.

The second goal arrived seven minutes before the interval, as Suarez controlled Sergi Roberto&#39;s fine ball into the box before firing home.

It was the Uruguayan&#39;s 400th professional goal, his 131st for Barca putting him seventh on the club&#39;s all-time list of leading scorers.

Barca rounded out the victory in the third minute of added time as Messi&#39;s low ball across goal at the end of a jinking run was turned in by Paulinho.

Atletico beat Getafe 2-0 on Saturday, with Diego Costa scoring and then being sent off in his first league appearance since returning to the club from Chelsea.

Valencia are 11 points behind Barcelona in third after coming from behind to beat Girona 2-1 at Mestalla on Saturday.

Real Madrid are a massive 17 points adrift of the leaders in the fourth spot, although they do have two games in hand, including away to Celta Vigo on Sunday evening.

Lionel Messi marked his 400th appearance in La Liga with the opening goal as Barcelona eased to a 3-0 win

Lionel Messi marked his 400th appearance in La Liga with the opening goal as Barcelona eased to a 3-0 win over struggling Levante at the Camp Nou on Sunday. Messi's 365th goal in Spain's top flight came inside 12 minutes, with Luis Suarez adding the second before the interval and Paulinho completing the victory late on as Barcelona stretched their lead at the top of the table back to nine points over Atletico Madrid. The Catalans are still unbeaten in La Liga this season and have Philippe Coutinho to come in, with the Brazilian expected to be officially unveiled as a Barcelona player on Monday following the announcement of his 160 million-euro ($192 million) move from Liverpool. With all the talk ahead of this game on Coutinho, coach Ernesto Valverde was eager for his side to keep their focus on winning their first league outing since beating Real Madrid 3-0 in the Clasico on December 23. "Levante had not lost away since September. We were very good in the first half, but the rhythm was not the same in the second half," said Valverde. Coutinho, whose transfer is the third-biggest in football history, was not in attendance at the Camp Nou as the club's previous record recruit Ousmane Dembele started. The Frenchman, signed for 105 million euros from Borussia Dortmund at the start of the campaign, was included in the line-up here for the first time since tearing his hamstring nearly four months ago. He came close to scoring on a couple of occasions, including from one 20-yard strike that was beaten away by Levante goalkeeper Oier Olazabal. "I think he has to bring something to the team, and he also has to face up to the competition for places and for the tackles he will face on the pitch, from opponents who don't want to let him past," said Valverde, who took Dembele off midway through the second half. "It is a process, but I thought he looked good and we still hope he can improve." It was Messi who broke the deadlock from a Jordi Alba assist, a combination that has proved fruitful on so many occasions this season. The Argentine's flighted pass found Alba, and the left-back headed the ball down for Messi, arriving in the area, to finish first-time in off the far post for his 16th league goal of the campaign. The second goal arrived seven minutes before the interval, as Suarez controlled Sergi Roberto's fine ball into the box before firing home. It was the Uruguayan's 400th professional goal, his 131st for Barca putting him seventh on the club's all-time list of leading scorers. Barca rounded out the victory in the third minute of added time as Messi's low ball across goal at the end of a jinking run was turned in by Paulinho. Atletico beat Getafe 2-0 on Saturday, with Diego Costa scoring and then being sent off in his first league appearance since returning to the club from Chelsea. Valencia are 11 points behind Barcelona in third after coming from behind to beat Girona 2-1 at Mestalla on Saturday. Real Madrid are a massive 17 points adrift of the leaders in the fourth spot, although they do have two games in hand, including away to Celta Vigo on Sunday evening.

Messi marks new milestone in Barcelona victory as Coutinho waits

Cristiano Ronaldo trained alone on Thursday ahead of Real Madrid&#39;s clash against Barcelona this weekend, after sustaining a knock to his calf during the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi.

The Portugal star received rough treatment as he scored the winner in last Saturday&#39;s 1-0 victory over Brazilians Gremio in the final, but Ronaldo had insisted he would be fit for the visit of Barcelona.

&quot;Cristiano Ronaldo trained alone out on the pitch, both with and without the ball,&quot; Real wrote on their website, two days ahead of Saturday&#39;s Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Following Real&#39;s return to Spain, the five-time Ballon d&#39;Or recipient had remained in the gym on Tuesday and Wednesday before finally lacing up his boots for an individual training session on Thursday.

Spanish sports daily As reported it was simply a &quot;precaution&quot; as Real look to trim the 11-point gap between themselves and leaders Barcelona, who are unbeaten in La Liga this season.

&quot;He will play in the Clasico barring last-minute surprise,&quot; the paper added.

Zinedine Zidane&#39;s Real, who also trail Atletico Madrid and Valencia, are fourth in the table and realistically must win this weekend to remain in the running for the Spanish title.

Cristiano took a knock to his calf during the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi

Cristiano Ronaldo trained alone on Thursday ahead of Real Madrid's clash against Barcelona this weekend, after sustaining a knock to his calf during the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi. The Portugal star received rough treatment as he scored the winner in last Saturday's 1-0 victory over Brazilians Gremio in the final, but Ronaldo had insisted he would be fit for the visit of Barcelona. "Cristiano Ronaldo trained alone out on the pitch, both with and without the ball," Real wrote on their website, two days ahead of Saturday's Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu. Following Real's return to Spain, the five-time Ballon d'Or recipient had remained in the gym on Tuesday and Wednesday before finally lacing up his boots for an individual training session on Thursday. Spanish sports daily As reported it was simply a "precaution" as Real look to trim the 11-point gap between themselves and leaders Barcelona, who are unbeaten in La Liga this season. "He will play in the Clasico barring last-minute surprise," the paper added. Zinedine Zidane's Real, who also trail Atletico Madrid and Valencia, are fourth in the table and realistically must win this weekend to remain in the running for the Spanish title.

Ronaldo fitness worry ahead of Clasico

La Liga leaders Barcelona were held to a 2-2 home draw by Celta Vigo on Saturday as their former assistant coach Juan Carlos Unzue dented the title hopes of the Catalans, who dropped points for the second game in a row for the first time this campaign.

Celta striker Iago Aspas silenced the Nou Camp by giving Celta the lead in the 20th minute, knocking in on the rebound after splitting the home defence with a darting run through the middle.

Lionel Messi quickly replied at the other end, finishing off a sweeping team move two minutes later to score for the first time in six games in all competitions and net his 13th league goal of the season.

Messi helped set up what looked to be the winning goal for Luis Suarez in the 62nd minute as the striker thrashed home a Jordi Alba cutback but Barca were denied victory by another Uruguayan striker in Maxi Gomez.

He slotted in from close range after another searing run by Aspas, who capitalised on Barca defender Samuel Umtiti injuring his hamstring as he tried to keep up with the Spanish forward.

Gerard Pique missed a gilt-edged chance to hit the winner but struck the near post from close range while Messi, who also hit the woodwork earlier in the game, sent a free kick deep in stoppage time just wide of the post.

Barca still lead the standings with 36 points but second-placed Valencia can cut their deficit on the leaders down to two if they beat Getafe on Sunday.

Later on Saturday Atletico Madrid, third on 27 points, host Real Sociedad while champions Real Madrid, also on 27, visit struggling Athletic Bilbao.

Celta striker Iago Aspas silenced the Nou Camp by giving Celta the lead in the 20th minute, knocking in on the rebound after splitting the home defence with a darting run through the middle

La Liga leaders Barcelona were held to a 2-2 home draw by Celta Vigo on Saturday as their former assistant coach Juan Carlos Unzue dented the title hopes of the Catalans, who dropped points for the second game in a row for the first time this campaign. Celta striker Iago Aspas silenced the Nou Camp by giving Celta the lead in the 20th minute, knocking in on the rebound after splitting the home defence with a darting run through the middle. Lionel Messi quickly replied at the other end, finishing off a sweeping team move two minutes later to score for the first time in six games in all competitions and net his 13th league goal of the season. Messi helped set up what looked to be the winning goal for Luis Suarez in the 62nd minute as the striker thrashed home a Jordi Alba cutback but Barca were denied victory by another Uruguayan striker in Maxi Gomez. He slotted in from close range after another searing run by Aspas, who capitalised on Barca defender Samuel Umtiti injuring his hamstring as he tried to keep up with the Spanish forward. Gerard Pique missed a gilt-edged chance to hit the winner but struck the near post from close range while Messi, who also hit the woodwork earlier in the game, sent a free kick deep in stoppage time just wide of the post. Barca still lead the standings with 36 points but second-placed Valencia can cut their deficit on the leaders down to two if they beat Getafe on Sunday. Later on Saturday Atletico Madrid, third on 27 points, host Real Sociedad while champions Real Madrid, also on 27, visit struggling Athletic Bilbao.

Barca held 2-2 by Celta despite Messi ending goal drought

Real Madrid and Atletico each slipped 10 points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona after an intense Madrid derby finished goalless and the Catalans picked up an 11th victory in 12 games by winning 3-0 at Leganes.

Atletico forward Angel Correa wasted a glorious chance to open the scoring in the first derby at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium when he was through on goal in the third minute, while Toni Kroos missed Real&#39;s clearest opportunity.

Raphael Varane rescued Real by heading away Kevin Gameiro&#39;s chipped shot in the second half. At the other end, Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak made two late saves to thwart Cristiano Ronaldo and Kroos as Real finished stronger in the first league derby to finish 0-0 in more than 12 years.

Barca striker Luis Suarez snapped a goal drought spanning five games by scoring twice in his side&#39;s 3-0 win at Leganes, while substitute Paulinho poked in the third goal in stoppage time.

Barca lead the standings on 34 points from 12 games, seven clear of Valencia who visit Espanyol on Sunday, while Real are third on 24, level on points with Atletico in fourth. Sevilla are fifth after coming from behind to beat Celta Vigo 2-1 at home.

The intense rivalry between Real and Atletico could be felt throughout the game, with Correa booting a ball at Karim Benzema&#39;s face when the French striker was on the floor or when Stefan Savic cynically hauled down Kroos.

Towards the end of the first half Lucas Hernandez kicked Sergio Ramos in the face as the captain tried to land a diving header, an incident which could have led to a Real penalty and saw Ramos taken off with a fractured nose.

Atletico fans booed Antoine Griezmann off the pitch when he was substituted following a lifeless performance from the France striker, who has not scored for his club since Sept. 27.

Real coach Zinedine Zidane said his side deserved more from the game, the fifth occasion in which they have dropped points this season.

&quot;Sometimes the ball doesn&#39;t want to go in. I can&#39;t explain why,&quot; he told reporters.

&quot;The good thing about tonight is we played well. Of course, we&#39;re struggling to score, but we know we will. We need to stay positive, which we are. We need to keep on working because this is football and things change very quickly and I&#39;m sure we&#39;ll be fighting for the title until the end.&quot;

Atletico coach Diego Simeone said: &quot;We were playing against the best team in the world. We played as we wanted to, we could have lost this game but we also could have won it.&quot;

SPURNED CHANCES

Earlier at Leganes, Barca striker Suarez reaped the benefits of two weeks rest after being left out of Uruguay&#39;s internationals and pounced from close range to give Barca the lead in the 28th minute, after Leganes goalkeeper Ivan Cuellar failed to hold a shot from Paco Alcacer.

Leganes offered Barca little space going forward and strikers Nordin Amrabat and Alexander Szymanowski both spurned chances to score before the break, the latter being denied by the left hand of an outstretched Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

&quot;Perhaps the result implies we dominated the game more than we actually did,&quot; Barca coach Ernesto Valverde told reporters.

Suarez doubled Ernesto Valverde&#39;s side&#39;s lead on the hour by sliding to send another rebound beyond the hapless Cuellar while Brazilian Paulinho struck his fourth goal of the season.

There was one negative for Barca, however, as defender Gerard Pique picked up a fifth yellow card of the season and is suspended for next week&#39;s top-of-the-table clash at Valencia.

Atletico forward Angel Correa wasted a glorious chance to open the scoring in the first derby at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium when he was through on goal in the third minute, while Toni Kroos missed Real's clearest opportunity.

Real Madrid and Atletico each slipped 10 points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona after an intense Madrid derby finished goalless and the Catalans picked up an 11th victory in 12 games by winning 3-0 at Leganes. Atletico forward Angel Correa wasted a glorious chance to open the scoring in the first derby at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium when he was through on goal in the third minute, while Toni Kroos missed Real's clearest opportunity. Raphael Varane rescued Real by heading away Kevin Gameiro's chipped shot in the second half. At the other end, Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak made two late saves to thwart Cristiano Ronaldo and Kroos as Real finished stronger in the first league derby to finish 0-0 in more than 12 years. Barca striker Luis Suarez snapped a goal drought spanning five games by scoring twice in his side's 3-0 win at Leganes, while substitute Paulinho poked in the third goal in stoppage time. Barca lead the standings on 34 points from 12 games, seven clear of Valencia who visit Espanyol on Sunday, while Real are third on 24, level on points with Atletico in fourth. Sevilla are fifth after coming from behind to beat Celta Vigo 2-1 at home. The intense rivalry between Real and Atletico could be felt throughout the game, with Correa booting a ball at Karim Benzema's face when the French striker was on the floor or when Stefan Savic cynically hauled down Kroos. Towards the end of the first half Lucas Hernandez kicked Sergio Ramos in the face as the captain tried to land a diving header, an incident which could have led to a Real penalty and saw Ramos taken off with a fractured nose. Atletico fans booed Antoine Griezmann off the pitch when he was substituted following a lifeless performance from the France striker, who has not scored for his club since Sept. 27. Real coach Zinedine Zidane said his side deserved more from the game, the fifth occasion in which they have dropped points this season. "Sometimes the ball doesn't want to go in. I can't explain why," he told reporters. "The good thing about tonight is we played well. Of course, we're struggling to score, but we know we will. We need to stay positive, which we are. We need to keep on working because this is football and things change very quickly and I'm sure we'll be fighting for the title until the end." Atletico coach Diego Simeone said: "We were playing against the best team in the world. We played as we wanted to, we could have lost this game but we also could have won it." SPURNED CHANCES Earlier at Leganes, Barca striker Suarez reaped the benefits of two weeks rest after being left out of Uruguay's internationals and pounced from close range to give Barca the lead in the 28th minute, after Leganes goalkeeper Ivan Cuellar failed to hold a shot from Paco Alcacer. Leganes offered Barca little space going forward and strikers Nordin Amrabat and Alexander Szymanowski both spurned chances to score before the break, the latter being denied by the left hand of an outstretched Marc-Andre ter Stegen. "Perhaps the result implies we dominated the game more than we actually did," Barca coach Ernesto Valverde told reporters. Suarez doubled Ernesto Valverde's side's lead on the hour by sliding to send another rebound beyond the hapless Cuellar while Brazilian Paulinho struck his fourth goal of the season. There was one negative for Barca, however, as defender Gerard Pique picked up a fifth yellow card of the season and is suspended for next week's top-of-the-table clash at Valencia.

Football: Suarez inspires Barca, Real and Atletico in derby stalemate

In the space of just five games, Real Madrid have gone from red-hot La Liga title favourites to trailing rivals Barcelona by seven points ahead of Saturday&#39;s trip to Alaves.

When Madrid swept a crisis-ridden Barca aside 5-1 in the Spanish Super Cup last month, Zinedine Zidane&#39;s men were expected to romp to the title.

Instead, disappointing home draws against Valencia and Levante were compounded as Real failed to score for the first time in 74 games when Real Betis became the first side other than Barca or Atletico Madrid to win at the Santiago Bernabeu in La Liga for six-and-a-half years on Wednesday.

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<h5>We have dropped seven points in a small number of games but there is a long way to go and we can&#39;t throw everything we have done until now in the bin because of two or three average games,&#39; Zidane insisted.</h5>
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&quot;We have dropped seven points in a small number of games but there is a long way to go and we can&#39;t throw everything we have done until now in the bin because of two or three average games,&quot; insisted Zidane.

&quot;I know that many people don&#39;t like this work when things go wrong, but we have to accept it and be calm.

&quot;The league is very long and we will stay calm within the group because we will lift ourselves and we know we will have better days.&quot;

Going on the road this weekend may come as a relief to Real as they have shone on their travels this season in wins at Deportivo la Coruna and Real Sociedad as well as beating Barca and Manchester United in the Spanish and UEFA Super Cups respectively.

&quot;It seems like if we don&#39;t score early at the Bernabeu we start to get anxious,&quot; admitted midfielder Isco.

&quot;It is something we have to improve and it is better that it happens now at the start of the season when there is more room for error.&quot;

And while Real have endured a rough start to their title defence, Alaves are suffering a nightmare start to the season themselves as they have lost all five matches so far and already sacked coach Luis Zubeldia.

&quot;We need to turn the page and think about the next game,&quot; said Real captain Sergio Ramos.

&quot;We have come back from many points behind to win the league before. We need to stay calm because they are many games and points still to play for.&quot;

There won&#39;t be a Zidane family reunion at Mendizorroza as Enzo Zidane, Zinedine&#39;s oldest son, can&#39;t feature for Alaves due to the terms of his loan move from Real.

- Political all-Catalan clash - 
Madrid can reduce the gap on Barca to four points before the leaders travel to Girona for a first ever Catalan derby between the two in the top flight.

Barca&#39;s impressive start to the season on the field has been overshadowed this week as the club condemned the escalating political tension in the region in the build-up to an October 1 referendum on independence organised by pro-separatist politicians.

A powerful symbol of Catalonia across the world, Barca called for respect for &quot;democracy, to freedom of speech, and to self-determination.&quot;

Fourteen regional government officials were detained on Wednesday as part of the crackdown by the Spanish government on plans for the referendum.

With Barca expected to rack up a seventh straight win in all competitions against newly-promoted Girona, attention will be focused as much on demonstrations that could take place by both sets of fans at Montilivi.

The most enticing clash of the weekend comes at the Wanda Metropolitano on Saturday lunchtime as third hosts second when Atletico Madrid welcome Sevilla.

Diego Costa is expected to be paraded on his homecoming after Atletico agreed a reported club record fee of 55 million euros ($66 million) to bring the man that fired them to the title in 2013/14 back to the club from Chelsea.

Costa won&#39;t be able to play until January, however.

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In the space of just five games, Real Madrid have gone from red-hot La Liga title favourites to trailing rivals Barcelona by seven points

In the space of just five games, Real Madrid have gone from red-hot La Liga title favourites to trailing rivals Barcelona by seven points ahead of Saturday's trip to Alaves. When Madrid swept a crisis-ridden Barca aside 5-1 in the Spanish Super Cup last month, Zinedine Zidane's men were expected to romp to the title. Instead, disappointing home draws against Valencia and Levante were compounded as Real failed to score for the first time in 74 games when Real Betis became the first side other than Barca or Atletico Madrid to win at the Santiago Bernabeu in La Liga for six-and-a-half years on Wednesday. We have dropped seven points in a small number of games but there is a long way to go and we can't throw everything we have done until now in the bin because of two or three average games,' Zidane insisted. × "We have dropped seven points in a small number of games but there is a long way to go and we can't throw everything we have done until now in the bin because of two or three average games," insisted Zidane. "I know that many people don't like this work when things go wrong, but we have to accept it and be calm. "The league is very long and we will stay calm within the group because we will lift ourselves and we know we will have better days." Going on the road this weekend may come as a relief to Real as they have shone on their travels this season in wins at Deportivo la Coruna and Real Sociedad as well as beating Barca and Manchester United in the Spanish and UEFA Super Cups respectively. "It seems like if we don't score early at the Bernabeu we start to get anxious," admitted midfielder Isco. "It is something we have to improve and it is better that it happens now at the start of the season when there is more room for error." And while Real have endured a rough start to their title defence, Alaves are suffering a nightmare start to the season themselves as they have lost all five matches so far and already sacked coach Luis Zubeldia. "We need to turn the page and think about the next game," said Real captain Sergio Ramos. "We have come back from many points behind to win the league before. We need to stay calm because they are many games and points still to play for." There won't be a Zidane family reunion at Mendizorroza as Enzo Zidane, Zinedine's oldest son, can't feature for Alaves due to the terms of his loan move from Real. - Political all-Catalan clash - Madrid can reduce the gap on Barca to four points before the leaders travel to Girona for a first ever Catalan derby between the two in the top flight. Barca's impressive start to the season on the field has been overshadowed this week as the club condemned the escalating political tension in the region in the build-up to an October 1 referendum on independence organised by pro-separatist politicians. A powerful symbol of Catalonia across the world, Barca called for respect for "democracy, to freedom of speech, and to self-determination." Fourteen regional government officials were detained on Wednesday as part of the crackdown by the Spanish government on plans for the referendum. With Barca expected to rack up a seventh straight win in all competitions against newly-promoted Girona, attention will be focused as much on demonstrations that could take place by both sets of fans at Montilivi. The most enticing clash of the weekend comes at the Wanda Metropolitano on Saturday lunchtime as third hosts second when Atletico Madrid welcome Sevilla. Diego Costa is expected to be paraded on his homecoming after Atletico agreed a reported club record fee of 55 million euros ($66 million) to bring the man that fired them to the title in 2013/14 back to the club from Chelsea. Costa won't be able to play until January, however.

Zidane pleads for calm amidst Real slump

Lionel Messi kept Barcelona&#39;s title hopes alive with two goals and an assist to see off Real Sociedad 3-2 as Spain&#39;s top two edged five-goal thrillers ahead of next weekend&#39;s El Clasico.

Earlier on Saturday, Isco struck at the death to keep Real Madrid three points clear and with a game in hand at the top of the table after twice coming from behind to beat Sporting Gijon 3-2.

Barcelona will need Messi on this form if they are to produce another miracle Champions League fightback against Juventus on Wednesday from a 3-0 first leg defeat suffered in midweek.

&quot;I am more than happy with the performance of the players and their ability to manage the frustration after what we experienced in the Champions League this week,&quot; Barca boss Luis Enrique told Spanish TV station Movistar.

The Argentine is now just two off his 500th Barca goal as he smashed home an effort from 25 yards to open the scoring.

Messi then took his tally to 45 goals in 44 games this season with a far less spectacular finish as he bundled home from close range after Geronimo Rulli had saved from Luis Suarez.

However, Barca passed up the chance to enjoy a comfortable evening in a three-goal spell in as many minutes just before half-time.

Firstly, Samuel Umtiti turned Inigo Martinez`s driven effort into his own net.

Paco Alcacer, deputising for the suspended Neymar, briefly restored Barca&#39;s two-goal lead with a composed finish from Messi&#39;s pass.

Yet, Sociedad scored again almost straight from kick-off as Xabi Prieto cushioned William Jose&#39;s cross into the bottom corner. Madrid can all but secure a first league title in five years with victory when they host Barca next weekend.

But not for the first time this season they needed a late show after Duje Cop and Mikel Vesga put Sporting in front early in both halves.

Isco&#39;s fine individual effort and a towering header from Alvaro Morata ensured neither lead lasted more than a few minutes. And Isco sealed the comeback when he drilled home from the edge of the box.

&quot;This is the spirit of Real Madrid,&quot; said Isco.

&quot;It is in the DNA of this shirt and this badge, we have shown it so many times and again today. Until the referee blows the full-time whistle it is not over.&quot;

The Spanish international is yet to agree a new contract with his current deal expiring at the end of next season.

And Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane insists he wants Isco to stay despite his lack of starts and interest from Barcelona.

&quot;You know what I think of Isco, he is a player I like a lot and his place is here.&quot;

Isco&#39;s late intervention bailed out his coach after Zidane made nine changes from the side that beat Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in midweek.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema were left out of the squad entirely alongside the injured Gareth Bale, while Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Marcelo had to settle for a place on the bench.

&quot;I feel like I am unfair with those that don`t play,&quot; added Zidane.

&quot;There are 24 players that can play in all positions. It is the difficult part of this job.&quot;

Atletico Madrid warmed up for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Leicester City with a comfortable 3-0 win over rock bottom Osasuna despite missing two penalties in the same game for the second time this season.

Coach Diego Simeone also left out a number of his first-team regulars with top scorer Antoine Griezmann on the bench for the full 90 minutes.

Yannick Carrasco`s low strike and back-post header put Atletico comfortably ahead either side of half-time.

Left-back Filipe Luis then added his third goal in five games.

However, Atletico&#39;s problems from the spot continued as they have now failed to score any of their last six penalties in La Liga.

Carrasco was denied his hat-trick by a fine save from Salvatore Sirigu before the Italian `keeper made an even better stop to deny Thomas Partey seconds later.

Victory takes Atletico four points clear of Sevilla in third.

(AFP)

 
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Lionel Messi kept Barcelona's title hopes alive with two goals and an assist to see off Real Sociedad 3-2

Lionel Messi kept Barcelona's title hopes alive with two goals and an assist to see off Real Sociedad 3-2 as Spain's top two edged five-goal thrillers ahead of next weekend's El Clasico. Earlier on Saturday, Isco struck at the death to keep Real Madrid three points clear and with a game in hand at the top of the table after twice coming from behind to beat Sporting Gijon 3-2. Barcelona will need Messi on this form if they are to produce another miracle Champions League fightback against Juventus on Wednesday from a 3-0 first leg defeat suffered in midweek. "I am more than happy with the performance of the players and their ability to manage the frustration after what we experienced in the Champions League this week," Barca boss Luis Enrique told Spanish TV station Movistar. The Argentine is now just two off his 500th Barca goal as he smashed home an effort from 25 yards to open the scoring. Messi then took his tally to 45 goals in 44 games this season with a far less spectacular finish as he bundled home from close range after Geronimo Rulli had saved from Luis Suarez. However, Barca passed up the chance to enjoy a comfortable evening in a three-goal spell in as many minutes just before half-time. Firstly, Samuel Umtiti turned Inigo Martinez`s driven effort into his own net. Paco Alcacer, deputising for the suspended Neymar, briefly restored Barca's two-goal lead with a composed finish from Messi's pass. Yet, Sociedad scored again almost straight from kick-off as Xabi Prieto cushioned William Jose's cross into the bottom corner. Madrid can all but secure a first league title in five years with victory when they host Barca next weekend. But not for the first time this season they needed a late show after Duje Cop and Mikel Vesga put Sporting in front early in both halves. Isco's fine individual effort and a towering header from Alvaro Morata ensured neither lead lasted more than a few minutes. And Isco sealed the comeback when he drilled home from the edge of the box. "This is the spirit of Real Madrid," said Isco. "It is in the DNA of this shirt and this badge, we have shown it so many times and again today. Until the referee blows the full-time whistle it is not over." The Spanish international is yet to agree a new contract with his current deal expiring at the end of next season. And Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane insists he wants Isco to stay despite his lack of starts and interest from Barcelona. "You know what I think of Isco, he is a player I like a lot and his place is here." Isco's late intervention bailed out his coach after Zidane made nine changes from the side that beat Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in midweek. Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema were left out of the squad entirely alongside the injured Gareth Bale, while Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Marcelo had to settle for a place on the bench. "I feel like I am unfair with those that don`t play," added Zidane. "There are 24 players that can play in all positions. It is the difficult part of this job." Atletico Madrid warmed up for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Leicester City with a comfortable 3-0 win over rock bottom Osasuna despite missing two penalties in the same game for the second time this season. Coach Diego Simeone also left out a number of his first-team regulars with top scorer Antoine Griezmann on the bench for the full 90 minutes. Yannick Carrasco`s low strike and back-post header put Atletico comfortably ahead either side of half-time. Left-back Filipe Luis then added his third goal in five games. However, Atletico's problems from the spot continued as they have now failed to score any of their last six penalties in La Liga. Carrasco was denied his hat-trick by a fine save from Salvatore Sirigu before the Italian `keeper made an even better stop to deny Thomas Partey seconds later. Victory takes Atletico four points clear of Sevilla in third. (AFP)

La Liga: Messi keeps Barca alive ahead of El Clasico

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will leave the Spanish La Liga champions at the end of the season,&nbsp;saying he needs to &quot;rest&quot;.

Luis Enrique made the announcement at the post-match press conference after Barca thrashed Sporting Gijon 6-1 at the Nou Camp to stay in the hunt for a third league title.

&quot;I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me, it&#39;s been three unforgettable years,&quot; said Luis Enrique, who has won two Liga titles, two King&#39;s Cups and the 2015 Champions League since succeeding Gerardo Martino in 2014.

&quot;It is a difficult, measured and well thought-out decision and I think I have to be loyal to what I think,&quot; said Enrique, who will leave at the end of his contract this summer.

&quot;It&#39;s about how I live with my profession, with a never-ending quest for solutions and to improve my team. That means I have very little time to rest, very few hours to disconnect,&quot; the Barcelona coach added.

&quot;I think it will be good for me at the end of the season, because I need to rest. That&#39;s the principle motive,&quot; he said.

&quot;The most important thing is we have three exciting months left in all three competitions. In one of them, we are in a difficult situation but if the stars align, we will have a chance to turn it around,&quot; he hoped.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rnhh5ZAYpy0" width="854"></iframe>

Watch: Enrique&#39;s best moments

Barcelona is on the verge of elimination from the Champions League after losing 4-0 to Paris St-Germain in the first leg of the round of 16.

Luis Enrique&#39;s final dream at the Spanish club would be to defend the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles this season.&nbsp;

(WION)

He said he needed to 'rest', and that 'it's been three unforgettable years'

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will leave the Spanish La Liga champions at the end of the season, saying he needs to "rest". Luis Enrique made the announcement at the post-match press conference after Barca thrashed Sporting Gijon 6-1 at the Nou Camp to stay in the hunt for a third league title. "I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me, it's been three unforgettable years," said Luis Enrique, who has won two Liga titles, two King's Cups and the 2015 Champions League since succeeding Gerardo Martino in 2014. "It is a difficult, measured and well thought-out decision and I think I have to be loyal to what I think," said Enrique, who will leave at the end of his contract this summer. "It's about how I live with my profession, with a never-ending quest for solutions and to improve my team. That means I have very little time to rest, very few hours to disconnect," the Barcelona coach added. "I think it will be good for me at the end of the season, because I need to rest. That's the principle motive," he said. "The most important thing is we have three exciting months left in all three competitions. In one of them, we are in a difficult situation but if the stars align, we will have a chance to turn it around," he hoped. Watch: Enrique's best moments Barcelona is on the verge of elimination from the Champions League after losing 4-0 to Paris St-Germain in the first leg of the round of 16. Luis Enrique's final dream at the Spanish club would be to defend the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles this season. (WION)

Luis Enrique to quit as Barcelona coach at end of season

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will leave the Spanish La Liga champions at the end of the season,&nbsp;saying he needs to &quot;rest&quot;.

Luis Enrique made the announcement at the post-match conference after Barca thrashed Sporting Gijon 6-1 at the Nou Camp to keep up their bid for a third league title.

&quot;I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me, it&#39;s been three unforgettable years,&quot; said Luis Enrique, who has won two Liga titles, two King&#39;s Cups and the 2015 Champions League since succeeding Gerardo Martino in 2014.

&quot;It is a difficult, measured and well thought-out decision and I think I have to be loyal to what I think,&quot; said Enrique, who will leave at the end of his contract this summer.

&quot;It&#39;s about how I live with my profession, with a never-ending quest for solutions and to improve my team. That means I have very little time to rest, very few hours to disconnect.

&quot;I think it will be good for me at the end of the season, because I need to rest. That&#39;s the principle motive.&quot;

&quot;The most important thing is we have three exciting months left in all three competitions. In one of them, we are in a difficult situation but if the stars align, we will have a chance to turn it around.&quot;

Some of Enrique&#39;s best moments at FC Barcelona

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0SI1tJcjjRI" width="854"></iframe>

Barcelona is on the verge of elimination from the Champions League after losing 4-0 to Paris St-Germain in the first leg of the round of 16.

Luis Enrique&#39;s final dream at the Spanish club would be to defend the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles this season. &nbsp;

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will leave the Spanish La Liga champions at the end of the season, ?saying he needs to "rest"

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique will leave the Spanish La Liga champions at the end of the season, saying he needs to "rest". Luis Enrique made the announcement at the post-match conference after Barca thrashed Sporting Gijon 6-1 at the Nou Camp to keep up their bid for a third league title. "I would like to thank the club for the confidence they have shown in me, it's been three unforgettable years," said Luis Enrique, who has won two Liga titles, two King's Cups and the 2015 Champions League since succeeding Gerardo Martino in 2014. "It is a difficult, measured and well thought-out decision and I think I have to be loyal to what I think," said Enrique, who will leave at the end of his contract this summer. "It's about how I live with my profession, with a never-ending quest for solutions and to improve my team. That means I have very little time to rest, very few hours to disconnect. "I think it will be good for me at the end of the season, because I need to rest. That's the principle motive." "The most important thing is we have three exciting months left in all three competitions. In one of them, we are in a difficult situation but if the stars align, we will have a chance to turn it around." Some of Enrique's best moments at FC Barcelona Barcelona is on the verge of elimination from the Champions League after losing 4-0 to Paris St-Germain in the first leg of the round of 16. Luis Enrique's final dream at the Spanish club would be to defend the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles this season.

Luis Enrique to quit as Barcelona boss at the end of season

Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar were all on target as Barcelona went top of La Liga for the first time since October with a 6-0 thrashing of Alaves on Saturday.

In a dress rehearsal of the Copa del Rey final, Alaves paid for their semi-final exertions against Celta Vigo in midweek as Barca moved two points ahead of Real Madrid.

However, Madrid have three games in hand, starting with a visit to Osasuna later on Saturday.

Barca&#39;s success was overshadowed, though, by violent clashes between fans outside the ground before kick-off which left one supporter in hospital with serious head injuries.

Both sides later released statements condemning the violence.

And in another blow to the Catalans, Aleix Vidal was stretchered off with a horrible looking ankle injury just three minutes from time.

&quot;I go away with very good feelings from the football perspective, for the result and the way we achieved it,&quot; said Barca boss Luis Enrique.

&quot;But I am upset by Aleix&#39;s injury, the way it came about and what it means for him.&quot;

Vidal had only recently established himself back in the team after being sidelined by Enrique for the majority of the season.

&quot;It is something serious, but we have to wait until the doctors see it and can say,&quot; added Enrique.

On the field, Enrique rotated his squad once more with six changes from Tuesday&#39;s 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid that secured their place in a fourth consecutive Cup final.

However, despite a trip to Paris Saint-Germain upcoming on Tuesday, Messi, Suarez and Neymar were all included and ran riot.

The visitors had goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen to thank for not going behind early on with a brilliant one-on-one save from Theo Hernandez.

There was no doubt over the outcome once Barca went in front thanks to a fine team move finished off by Suarez from close range eight minutes before half-time.

A goalkeeping error from Fernando Pachecho allowed Barca to double their lead three minutes later as he punched a loose ball off Suarez&#39;s head and the ball rebounded for Neymar to tap into an empty net.

The champions hit top form after the break with four further goals in eight minutes.

Messi drilled his 34th goal of the season low past Pacheco just before the hour mark.

The Argentine was then played in by Suarez, but the last touch came off Alaves defender Alexis to make it 4-0.

Ivan Rakitic blasted home the fifth from Suarez&#39;s cut-back before the Uruguayan rounded off the rout himself after Pacheco had parried Neymar&#39;s initial effort.

Yet, Barca&#39;s fine day was spoiled late on when Vidal&#39;s right ankle gave way under an innocuous looking challenge from Hernandez. 
 
(Reuters)

Barca's success was overshadowed by violent clashes between fans outside the ground before kick-off which left one supporter in hospital

Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar were all on target as Barcelona went top of La Liga for the first time since October with a 6-0 thrashing of Alaves on Saturday. In a dress rehearsal of the Copa del Rey final, Alaves paid for their semi-final exertions against Celta Vigo in midweek as Barca moved two points ahead of Real Madrid. However, Madrid have three games in hand, starting with a visit to Osasuna later on Saturday. Barca's success was overshadowed, though, by violent clashes between fans outside the ground before kick-off which left one supporter in hospital with serious head injuries. Both sides later released statements condemning the violence. And in another blow to the Catalans, Aleix Vidal was stretchered off with a horrible looking ankle injury just three minutes from time. "I go away with very good feelings from the football perspective, for the result and the way we achieved it," said Barca boss Luis Enrique. "But I am upset by Aleix's injury, the way it came about and what it means for him." Vidal had only recently established himself back in the team after being sidelined by Enrique for the majority of the season. "It is something serious, but we have to wait until the doctors see it and can say," added Enrique. On the field, Enrique rotated his squad once more with six changes from Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid that secured their place in a fourth consecutive Cup final. However, despite a trip to Paris Saint-Germain upcoming on Tuesday, Messi, Suarez and Neymar were all included and ran riot. The visitors had goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen to thank for not going behind early on with a brilliant one-on-one save from Theo Hernandez. There was no doubt over the outcome once Barca went in front thanks to a fine team move finished off by Suarez from close range eight minutes before half-time. A goalkeeping error from Fernando Pachecho allowed Barca to double their lead three minutes later as he punched a loose ball off Suarez's head and the ball rebounded for Neymar to tap into an empty net. The champions hit top form after the break with four further goals in eight minutes. Messi drilled his 34th goal of the season low past Pacheco just before the hour mark. The Argentine was then played in by Suarez, but the last touch came off Alaves defender Alexis to make it 4-0. Ivan Rakitic blasted home the fifth from Suarez's cut-back before the Uruguayan rounded off the rout himself after Pacheco had parried Neymar's initial effort. Yet, Barca's fine day was spoiled late on when Vidal's right ankle gave way under an innocuous looking challenge from Hernandez. (Reuters)

La Liga: Barca's 'MSN' score as they rout Alaves

Valencia were fined and warned on Wednesday after a section of fans pelted celebrating Barcelona players with a bottle, but the Spanish champions were also criticised for their conduct.

Luis Suarez and Neymar were hit by a plastic bottle thrown by the Valencia fans as Barca celebrated a last-gasp 3-2 win at Mestalla on Saturday in what had been a bad-tempered La Liga encounter.

A disciplinary committee of the Spanish Football Federation fined the home side 1,500 euros ($1,600) and said a repeat could result in a stadium closure.

But it also had harsh words for Barcelona, accusing some of their players, without giving names, of &quot;reproachable behaviour&quot; as they celebrated close to the touchline.

However, the Federation stressed that &quot;nothing, absolutely nothing justifies a violent public reaction&quot;.

In response, Barcelona issued a statement calling the criticism of their players &quot;totally reproachable&quot;.

&quot;The committee should have confined itself to analysing the facts and apply the existing rules,&quot; the Catalan club said.

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique had said in the immediate aftermath of the incident: &quot;We celebrated as it is normal to celebrate a last-minute winner.&quot;

(AFP) 
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A disciplinary committee fined Valencia after their fans hit Barca's Suarez and Neymar in their La Liga encounter on Saturday

Valencia were fined and warned on Wednesday after a section of fans pelted celebrating Barcelona players with a bottle, but the Spanish champions were also criticised for their conduct. Luis Suarez and Neymar were hit by a plastic bottle thrown by the Valencia fans as Barca celebrated a last-gasp 3-2 win at Mestalla on Saturday in what had been a bad-tempered La Liga encounter. A disciplinary committee of the Spanish Football Federation fined the home side 1,500 euros ($1,600) and said a repeat could result in a stadium closure. But it also had harsh words for Barcelona, accusing some of their players, without giving names, of "reproachable behaviour" as they celebrated close to the touchline. However, the Federation stressed that "nothing, absolutely nothing justifies a violent public reaction". In response, Barcelona issued a statement calling the criticism of their players "totally reproachable". "The committee should have confined itself to analysing the facts and apply the existing rules," the Catalan club said. Barcelona coach Luis Enrique had said in the immediate aftermath of the incident: "We celebrated as it is normal to celebrate a last-minute winner." (AFP)

Football: Valencia fined, Barcelona censured for bottle incident

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