Real Madrid 5 - 1 Athletic Bilbao (Highlights)

Real Madrid 5 - 1 Athletic Bilbao

Any who thought Barcelonas demolition job on Almeria would place extra pressure on Real Madrid to get a result were emphatically proven wrong. Athletic put up a valiant fight, especially through Fernando Llorente upfront, but Real Madrids deadly efficiency on the break, coupled with the unerring accuracy provided by Cristiano Ronaldo meant Madrid ended up running out clear winners. Gonzalo Higuain got the ball rolling on 19 minutes when he collected a neat through-ball from the lively Angel Di Maria, to barge his way past a couple of defenders and finish past Iraizoz.

The second was a demonstration of just how devastating Real Madrid can be on the counter. Athletic had been threatening an equaliser when Real broke out of their own box, the ball flowing from Higuain to Mesut Ozil, who played a perfectly weighted pass onto Cristiano Ronaldo who fired in a cracker with his left foot. That could have been Bilbaos cue to dsintegrate, but they came right back at Mourinhos side and deservedly pulled one back through Llorente, although his position when the ball ricoched into his path looked ever so slightly offside. The third goal came after the break, Sergio Ramos converting a penalty which left the whole stadium, Mourinho included, 'Why Ramos and not CR7?' It was a bizarre situation. Nobody could think of an answer.

From the on Cristiano Ronaldo took over, smacking in a swerving free-kick, that admittedly Iraizoz should have done better with, before converting a penalty of his own after a foul from Amoriebeta on Granero. Anything Messi can do he will have thought. Athletic had fought tooth and nail but Real Madrids class was simply too much. Barcelona may have struck eight times, but this victory was evey bit as emphatic and sets up a mouth-watering fixture next Monday which will have the whole footballing world brought to a standstill.

Barcelona 3 - 1 Villarreal (Highlights): La Liga Saturday

Barcelona 3 - 1 Villarreal

They say in elite football it's the smallest details that mark the difference between the good and the great. Villarreal put up one hell of a fight in the Camp Nou, but commeth the hour, commeth the man. Lionel Messi stepped up to the plate, as he always does, to rescue Barcelona from a potentially precarious situation and set them on the way to what was eventually a convincing win. That's not to say Barca didn't display their unique brand of spellbinding football, simply that Villarreal stood toe-to-toe with the reigning champions until the Messi stepped it up a gear to steer his side to victory.

It was a fascinating match, quite easily the most entertaining offered up so far in La Liga this season. Barcelona settled into their stride early on, with Xavi and Iniesta exerting their influence on proceedings as ever, keeping possession and probing with intent at every possibility. Villarreal themselves attempted to pass the ball around and were by no means intimidated. Garridos men pressurised their opponents, keeping a high line and restricting Barca to half chances throughout a tight opening twenty minutes.

Then out of nowhere appeared David Villa, latching onto a fine pass from Andres Iniesta, steadying himself before slotting a composed finish beneath Diego Lopez. The goal made it three consecutive matches on the scoresheet for 'El Guaje', the perfect response to those who had foolishly doubted his undoubted ability in front of goal. From then on it became the Delgado Ferreira show, as the referee lost control of the match following a shocking decision that saw Lionel Messi flagged offside, when clearly a metre behind Carlos Marchena the moment Xavi set him free.

It would have been a certain goal, yet seconds later Barca found themselves on level terms. And what a goal it was from Nilmar, weaving his way into the box before sending a delicious dink over Victor Valdes. The Brazilian has been a revelation this season and it will be interesting to see if any of the big guns come in with an offer for the ex-Corinthians hitman in January. Suddenly the match was wide open and had it not been for poor finishing from Santi Cazorla and Cani mixed with some devine interventions from Victor Valdes, Villarreal could well have added a deserved second before half-time.

After half-time Barca managed to regain a stranglehold on the match, before Messi explode into life with a sensational goal on the hour mark that set Barcelona on the road to three points. Messi and Pedro exchanged five passes on a sixpence, Pedros final ball sending Leo through one-on-one with Diego Lopez. 'La Pulga' rarely fails in these situations, chipping a sumptuous shot over Diego Lopez. Cue pandemonium in the Camp Nou. They had witnessed yet another moment of genius from their master of ceremonies. It was a goal that Barcelona stamped all over it. A goal you would expect to see them pull off in training. Barca make it look that easy.

Aside from the fantasy football, you always felt the match was on the edge of boiling over, in no small part a result of Delgado Ferreiras dubious ability to control a football match. There were some fierce challenges and at one point an angry exchange of words between the two coaches, but credit to both sides as emotions were kept in check. Just. Even so, the shocking decisions kept on coming. Maxwell should have been shown red for a last-ditch foul on Borja Valero, while Messis third was clearly converted from an offside position. And the Spanish complain about Howard Webb?

In the end, Barcelona unsurprisingly proved too hot to handle for Villarreal, and while Garridos side demonstrated they can mix it up with the big boys, they cannot call upon a talent like Messi. Villarreal will be there or thereabouts. Fighting for third place and on the shoulder of the top two. Barcelona, on the other hand, are the team to beat. The first instalment of this seasons Clasico double bill can't come soon enough.

Athletic Bilbao 1 - 0 Almeria

If ever you wanted to watch a match that epitomised what Athletic Bilbao is all about, this was it. Fernando Llorente, the 'Lion King' himself, continued his devastating run of form to score the only goal of the match as Athletic survived two sendings off to edge their way past Almeria.

Koikili saw red on the stroke of half-time for a second yellow after pulling back Ulloa and this signalled the beginning of a second-half onslaught from Almeria. Whether it be the fighting spirit of coach Joaquin Caparros, or the unerring support of a vociferous San Mames crowd, Bilbao put their necks on the line to maintain their slim lead. The introduction of Piatti and Crusat for Almeria, both mysteriously left out of the starting line-up by Juan Lillo, made things even more complicated for the home side, added pace and creativity to an otherwise blunt Almeria front four.

Athletics task was made yet more difficult after replacement left-back Xavi Castillo also saw red to reduce his team to nine-men. But with players like Iker Muniain, Carlos Gerpegi and David Lopez, there is no such thing as a lost cause for the Basques. Roared on by their fanatical support they stood firm in the face of a late barrage from Almeria to hold out for a win that sees 'Los Leones' jump up to 8th, only two points from the top four.

Atletico Madrid 3 - 0 Osasuna

All the pre-match talk had centred around the relationship between star striker Diego Forlan and his coach Quique Sanchez Flores. So inevitably it was the Uruguayan striker who scored two and set up the other to hand Atletico a morale-boosting win over Osasuna. There is no doubt Atletico have strengthened their back line over the last year. No longer do they concede silly goals as David de Gea continues his rise to stardom and players like Tomas Ujfalusi and Luis Perea defy all those who thought the two defenders were finished goods only 12 months ago.

But without Forlán and Agüero banging in the goals, Atleti are toothless. Just as well the two strikers returned to the kind of form that sent the 'rojiblancos' to two cup finals last season, ruthlessly putting Osasuna to the sword with clincal finishes that belied their recent plight. On their day, the two are among the best forwards in world football, and last nights match provided the perfect proof that when on song, they are nigh on impossible to contain.

In truth they were the only difference between the two sides. Osasuna can knock the ball about, but without Walter Pandiani on the field, you just cannot see Camachos team sticking the ball in the back of the net. They lack that quality in-front of goal and unless they find a way of coping without their veteran talisman, it will be another long season for the team from Navarra.

As seen at SBNation: http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2010/11/14/1812768/lionel-messi-double-sinks-yellow-submarine

La Liga Matchday 9: Villarreal and Valencia unable to keep the pace

A nice little round up of the rest of the matches this weekend in La Liga which saw Real Madrid and Barcelona begin to pull away from the pack.

Valencia 1 - 1 Real Zaragoza

It was only three weeks ago that Valencia were sitting pretty at the top of La Liga after a storming start to the season which saw them win five and draw one out of their first six league fixtures. Then came defeats to Barcelona and Mallorca and suddenly the boat began to rock. Tonight was the perfect chance for Unai Emerys side to get back on track as the Liga whipping boys, Real Zaragoza, came to town. Things didn't get off to the best of starts for Valencia as Zaragoza centre-back Mauricio Lanzaro neatly spun and fired in from just inside the area after only 2 minutes. Jose Aurelio Gays side played their best football of the season so far, with Jorge Lopez and Angel Lafita both in the thick of the action, yet they still went into the break all square. Lanzaro undoing all his good work with the opener, as he comically headed past his keeper to bring Valencia back into it. The second half saw Valencia struggle to find any rythym, as the man who makes them tick over, Ever Banega, never got into the match. Even the introduction of striker Roberto Soldado and the ludicrous sending off of Real Zaragoza midfielder Ander Herrera failed to spark them into life. There is talk of pressure on manager Unai Emery, but I wouldn't read too much into it. Fourth in the league and looking good to qualify out of their group in the Champions League is hardly a crisis. For Jose Aurelio Gay, he'll be hoping this is the beginning of a revival as they fight to lift themselves off the foot of the table.

Atletico Madrid 1 - 1 Almeria

Not the best of derby day preparations for Atletico Madrid as they let a 1-0 lead slip at home to Almeria. Sergio Agüero got the opener for 'Los Colchoneros', finally getting off the mark for the season with a simple tap-in, but his team suffered two lethal blows before halftime that they simply couldn't recover from. Blossoming young talent Pablo Piatti grabbed a tasty equaliser for Almeria, a sweet volley after a cleared corner came to him on the edge of the box, and shortly after Jose Antonio Reyes pulled up with a calf strain. Atletico will be even more stretched for their trip to the Bernabeu as giant defender Luis Perea is ruled out through suspension. Quique will need his frontmen Agüero and Forlan more than ever next weekend.

Sporting Gijon 1 - 1 Villarreal

Villarreal had done a good job of sandwiching themselves between Real Madrid and Barcelona for a while there. But just when we were hoping at least one of them or Valencia could maintain a challenge at the top, both start to fade away. That's not to take anything away from Sporting, who more than contributed to a feisty match full of meaty challenges and lung-busting effort. In the end the points were shared with a penalty apiece, Villarreals scored with pretty much the last kick of the match, converted by goal machine Guiseppe Rossi. Not the most attractive of matches, although the rain and some more poor refereeing didn't allow it to be.

Deportivo La Coruña 3 - 0 Espanyol

If Espanyol had won today they would have leaped up into the giddy heights of the Champions League spots. Yet with Depor reverting back to a more accustomed (and secure) back five and Espanyol without their hitman Osvaldo this was always unlikely. And so it proved as the home side recorded their first home win of the season to haul themselves closer to safety at the foot of the table. Spain Under-21 striker Adrian slotting in the first when a corner caused mayhem in the Espanyol box. Then two of Depors centre-backs got in on the act late in the match to make the three points safe. The pressure has been lifted off Miguel Angel Lotina. For now at least.

Racing Santander 4 - 1 Osasuna

If Osasuna stay up this season, it will be through sheer grit and determination because they are seriously lacking in any quality. Racing Santander have struggled badly so far, yet they were given the freedom of El Sardinero as their Swedish stars Kennedy Bakircioglu (try saying that name after a couple of pints) and Markus Rosenburg scored three of Racings four to send Camachos men back to Pamplona empty-handed. Osasuna weren't helped by the absence of their only goal threat, Walter Pandiani, but they simply cannot rely on a veteran to keep them up. Racing leap up to mid-table with a vital win over a direct rival for relegation.

Athletic Bilbao 3 - 0 Getafe

Amazing as it may seem, Athletic Bilbao scored three goals tonight and Fernando Llorente didn't get one of them. The Basque team have always been known for their fighting qualities but in players such as Llorente, Susaeta, Iraola and Muniain they have some serious quality to add to their considerable bite. Their performance tonight was as intense as they come and Getafe did their best impression of rabbits in the headlights. Atheltic raced into an early 2-0 lead through Iraola and San Jose. It was a lead that they never looked like giving up and to make sure Gabilondo added a late third. All manager Jose Caparros needs to do now is get his team to replicate these performances away from the intimidating San Mames.

Malaga 1 - 2 Real Sociedad

Many teams make the leap from La Segunda to the top flight without the sufficient quality to stay up. Real Sociedad break that mould and with players such as Joseba Llorente, Antoine Griezmann and Xabi Prieto I fully expect them to maintain their La Liga status come what May. Still, you should not read too much into a victory at La Rosaleda, a stadium where all away teams walk away with three points in the bag. Malaga fans must be sick of seeing their team unable to repeat their electric away performances at home as they make it five defeats from five. 21 goals conceded in nine matches tell you all you need to know about where it's all going wrong. For Real Sociedad, goals from Llorente and Griezmann were enough to edge their team into the top half of the table.

As seen on SB Nation: http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2010/10/31/1784146/la-liga-matchday-9-david-villa-back-in-the-goals-as-pressure-mounts

La Liga Matchday 7: Manzano tastes defeat for the first time as Sevilla manager

Sporting Gijon 2 - 0 Sevilla

Gregorio Manzano saw his unbeaten record as Sevilla manager torn to shreds as Sporting Gijon produced two sublime goals and an electric display to send the Andalusians back down south empty-handed. The first goal saw Sangoy head in Riveras inch-perfect cross with aplomb after only six minutes, but they had to wait until early in the second half to make the points safe, Diego Castro scoring with a sumptuous backheel. Well worth looking that goal up on Youtube.

Athletic Bilbao 2 - 1 Real Zaragoza


Fernando Llorente kept up his remarkable goalscoring form this season with Athletic Bilbaos second against a lacklustre Real Zaragoza who never looked like getting anything from the match. Bilbao dominated from start to finish with Andani Iraola slamming home the first after only 11 minutes. Braulio got a consolation in added time but Jose Aurelio Gay is surely on his last warning now as Zaragoza hit rock bottom of La Liga.


Mallorca 0 - 1 Espanyol

Luis Garcias penalty on the half hour was enough to see Espanyol win for the first time in Mallorca since 1999. And they did so having played with ten men for the best part of the match after Osvaldo saw red for an elbow on Crespi. But you wouldnt have noticed as Espanyol had the better opportunties from then on as they hit the home side on the counter. Mallorca were simply shocking and Michael Laudrup will be looking to instill consistency in a team that blows hot and cold week in week out.

Levante 2 - 1 Real Sociedad

Real Sociedads poor form away from Anoeta continued as Levante earned their first home win of the season. Asier Del Horno and Caicedo were the scorers, Sarpong grabbing a late goal for Real. Joseba Llorente and Tamudo started for the first time together upfront, but they didnt get a look in as Levante defended resolutely (something I'm sure we won't hear too much this season) and attacked with ruthless efficiency.

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 0 Osasuna
Just looking at this fixture can give you nausea, and you have to feel sorry for those fans that paid to turn up. A match were the goalkeepers were the protagonists, closely followed by the ref who incorrectly disallowed a Osasuna effort for offside and sent off Osasunas Camuñas early on for a verbal volley of abuse. Both teams struggling badly to find the back of the net.

Racing Santander 1 - 0 Almeria

Golden oldie Pedro Munitis was the hero as Racing Santander won by a slender margin that could have been so much wider had Diego Alves not produced a string of stunning saves. The Brazilian keeper has to be one of the most underrated keepers in world football and you have to wonder how long it will be until a bigger team comes in for him. Pity for him is that those infront of him are producing shoddy football, leaving Juanma Lillos team hovering above the relegation zone.

Hercules v Villarreal (Monday)

Athletic Bilbao 1 - 3 Barcelona (Highlights) | Levante 0 - 0 Real Madrid

Athletic Bilbao 1 - 3 Barcelona
(0-1) 54' Keita, (0-2) 73' Xavi, (1-2) 90' Gabilondo, (1-3) 92' Busquets

After their uninspired win over Sporting Gijon, all the talk in the Spanish press had been about Barcelonas 'Messidependencia'. When you think about it, which team wouldn't depend on a player like Messi? It was the same last season with Real Madrid and the 'Cristianodependencia' debate. It's an argument I don't really understand. Teams will always depend on their greatest stars to produce the goods. And they'll always miss them when they're injured. Just some handle the loss better than others, especially when you have Xavi, Iniesta, Villa and Pedro to fall back on. Tonights trip to the Cathedral of Spanish football was a test of Barcas mettle. A raucous home crowd, a rain-soaked pitch and a team of red and white foot soldiers. There are few tougher assignments in La Liga, especially when you're without your biggest name.

Barca passed with flying colours. Yes, they were helped by the refs odd decision to send off Amorebieta for a robust challenge on Iniesta, but the Azulgrana were always in control. Athletic Bilbao probed away and the giant Fernando Llorente threw himself around but with Iniesta and Xavi dominating in the centre and Villa a constant threat, Bilbao always struggled to get hold of the ball. And things were made even more difficult after half an hour when Amorebieta was shown red when the ref should really have produced yellow. With the sending off, Athletics hopes vanished into the cloud filled skies. David Villa had hit the post in the first half, but the inevitable opening goal came early in the second half as Keita neatly slipped the ball under Iraizoz. Then Xavi fired in before Bilbao gave themselves late hope with a tap in from Gabilondo. But with seconds remaining Busquets made sure of the three points after David Villa had also seen red for hitting out at Gurpegui. Messidependencia? Not today.

Levante 0 - 0 Real Madrid

I'm pretty sure tonight was the night Jose Mourinho realised the scale of his task at the Bernabeu. Off the pitch he's doing all the right things. This weeks comment that 'teams gift wins to Barca' made sure Real Madrids dodgy start to the season has stayed well clear from the back pages of the papers. On the pitch is another matter. The defence is fine, with Carvalho, Pepe (suspended for tonights match), Sergio Ramos and Marcelo protecting San Iker admirably. Astonishingly it's up top where Madrid are suffering. Gonzalo Higuain has been shocking at times this season while Cristiano looks desparately short of inspiration. And as for Mesut Özil, the young German just can't get into games away from the Bernabeu. I have no doubts that all will come good, but the longer their dry spell continues, the more problems Real Madrid will have in putting teams to the sword. Six goals from 105 efforts so far this season tells its own story.

But to only speak of Madrids failure infront of goal would be doing Levante a huge injustice. After the start they've had, you would think they would have been dreading the visit of Madrid, but Levante were well up for it. Ballesteros and Nano were rocks at the back but it was very much a team effort. Manager Luis Garcia (an ex-Atletico player) remarked that his team finished the match 'physically exhausted'. It was certainly a point well-earned and after the midweek win against Almeria, they seem to have finally acclimatised to life back in La Liga. But for Madrid it was another 0-0 to add to their opening day no-score draw at Mallorca and they drop a point behind Barca and two behind leaders Valencia.

Sporting Gijon 0 - 2 Valencia

(0-1) 7' Topal, (0-2) 10' Soldado

Valencia carried on their stunning start to the season with a notable win against Sporting Gijon at El Molinon. Topal and Soldado got the two early goals that ripped the life out of Sporting and had the match sewn up after only ten minutes. Juan Mata and Pablo Hernandez put in classy performances and Roberto Soldado always looks like he has a goal or two in him. Sporting manager Manuel Preciado believes Valencia are serious candidates for La Liga but I have to disagree with him. Yes they've had a storming start to the season, but I look at the teamsheet and while it is full of quality, I can't see them seriously challenging Barca and Real Madrid over the course of a whole season. As always when it comes to the debate of the 'big two' in Spain, I hope they prove me wrong. In the meantime they have an impenetrable defence and an exciting attacking style that is bringing goals and points. Their biggest test so far awaits midweek. A visit from Manchester United.

Atletico Madrid 1 - 0 Real Zaragoza
(1-0) 20' Diego Costa

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 2 Almeria
(0-1) 4' Uche, (0-2) 18' Uche

Hercules 2 - 0 Sevilla
(1-0) 21' Trezeguet (p), (2-0) 38' Trezeguet

Espanyol 1 - 0 Osasuna
(1-0) 24' Alvaro Vazquez

Mallorca 2 - 0 Real Sociedad
(1-0) 5' Cavenaghi, (2-0) 61' Cavenaghi

Racing Santander 0 - 1 Getafe
(0-1) 16' Victor Sanchez

Malaga 2 - 3 Villarreal
(1-0) 4' Eliseu, (1-1) 21' Cazorla, (1-2) 23' Rossi, (2-2) 29' Rondon, (2-3) 33' Cazorla

Real Madrid 3 - 0 Espanyol (Highlights)

Real Madrid 3 - 0 Espanyol
(1-0) 28' Cristiano Ronaldo (p), (2-0) 79' Higuain, (3-0) 87' Benzema

Strange old game that saw Real Madrid struggle to find their rhythm before putting nine man Espanyol to the sword with an improved second half performance. The first 45 minutes saw Espanyol battle away in the middle of the park, making life uncomfortable for the home side, although Madrid carried the greater threat through Di Maria and Ronaldo. Trouble was they found it hard to create chances against a well-organised defence lead by Forlín and Galán and with Cristiano Ronaldo a shadow of the all-conquering winger/goalscorer extraordinaire we are so used to seeing. In the end it was a harsh decision on Luis Garcia, punished for handball when he was protecting his face in the wall from a free kick, that saw Real edge ahead with a Cristiano penalty, despatched with aplomb. It was hardly a fair reflection of proceedings at that stage and Espanyol had cause for complaint. With the speed that CR7 gets on the ball, I'm not sure how it can be labelled intentional handball.

After half-time we saw a more fluent Real Madrid, with impressive showings from Sergio Ramos, Ricardo Carvalho, Marcelo and Xabi Alonso helping things along nicely. Slowly but surely there are signs that Jose Mourinho is beginning to turn things around at the Bernabeu. Winning is one thing, but these most demanding of fans want to win in style and there were signs after half-time that Real Madrid are beginning to loosen the shackles of doubt that has plagued their start to the season. Pepe and Galán were both harshly sent off in quick succession, with Galáns red card surely a result of the uproar following that tackle by Ujfalusi on Messi. Had the defender commited the same foul on anyone else apart from Ronaldo, I'm convinced he would only have seen yellow. Gonzalo Higuain and Karim Benzema (what good that goal will do for his confidence) wrapped things up late on with well-taken strikes before Forlín saw the third red card of the evening after seeing two yellows, both for berating the ref. Pochettino didn't look overly impressed with the needless petulance shown from his centre back, nor with the manner of his sides defeat. The result flattered Real Madrid, and a dangerous-looking Espanyol will feel hard done by, but there's no denying Mourinhos men deserved all three points.

Tonights other matches:

Athletic Bilbao 3 - 0 Mallorca
(1-0) 44' David Lopez, (2-0) 62' San Jose (p), (3-0) 92' Perez

Osasuna 3 - 1 Real Sociedad
(0-1) 16' Tamudo, (1-1) 37' Pandiani, (2-1) 42' Camuñas, (3-1) 74' Aranda

LA LIGA MATCHDAY 2: Hercules shock Barcelona at Camp Nou (Highlights)

Barcelona 0 - 2 Hercules
(0-1) 26' Valdez, (0-2) 58' Valdez

No one can say they saw that coming. Unless your name is Esteban Vigo of course. When the Hercules manager stated midweek that his team would only be happy with a win in the Camp Nou, there was a deathly silence followed by howls of derision. No-one had won there last season so how on earth were newly-promoted Hercules going to. You'll be lucky if you're not on the end of a thrashing thought the rest of Spain. But had they read the history books? The last time Hercules were in the top flight, they did the league double over Barcelona. An own goal by Pep Guardiola in the Camp Nou to boot. And he committed another own goal today when he messed around with a winning formula to give a debut to Javier Mascherano, who had a miserable first half before being hauled off at half-time. A foul from the Argentine led to Hercules' opener, and in all fairness he was lucky not to be shown red having already been on a yellow. Another reckless purchase to rival big Zlatan?

Perhaps it was the fact that half his team had been involved in a meaningless friendly in Argentina days before. Maybe it was the herculean effort from keeper Juan Calatayud. But whatever it was, Barcelona were utterly incapable of breaking down a stubborn away backline. So it was left to Paraguayan striker Nelson Valdez, (remember the name!) to mark his debut in the grandest of manners with a clinical double which grabbed his side the points and the weekends headlines. David Trezeguet and young sub Kiko (the kid looked extremely useful in a late cameo) even had gilt-edged chances to make it three. A surreal match the like of which we probably won't see again too soon. How many times will you see Victor Valdes saving Barcelona from a hiding at home against a new boy in town? Massive slip for Barca and they now slide a point behind Real Madrid.

Real Madrid 1 - 0 Osasuna

(1-0) 48' Carvalho

You look at the Real Madrid line-up and it has GOAL written all over it. In Cristiano Ronaldo, Gonzalo Higuain and Karim Benzema they have at least 60 goals a season guaranteed. Slightly surprising then that Real Madrid struggled past Osasuna with a goal from new centre back Ricardo Carvalho, so far the only man to get on the scoresheet for 'Los Merengues' this season. Higuain was once again wasteful infront of goal, while Cristiano struggled to get into the game on his return from an ankle injury. Mourinhos team still havn't got into their stride yet but they had enough to see off Jose Antonio Camachos predictably rugged team, with Mesut Özil wooing the Berbabeu crowd with a cultured home debut full of attacking vivacity which earned the ex-Bremen man a well-deserved ovation when he was subbed late on. But all that will matter to everyone connected to Real Madrid is that they are one point clear of eternal rivals Barcelona. Advantage Mourinho.

Athletic Bilbao 1 - 2 Atletico Madrid

(0-1) 10' Forlan, (0-2) 80' Thiago, (1-2) 88' Llorente

Atleti fly back to the top of the table with a performance that offered yet more evidence that this season they should be ironed on certs for a Champions League spot at least. Over the course of a season I'm still not convinced they'll quite have enough to challenge Barca and Real Madrid at the top but a new-found resilience in defence coupled with the usual attacking flair means they will be a match for anyone. Diego Godin looks a superb signing at the back and his assertiveness is rubbing off on Luis Perea and Antonio Lopez, players who thrive when high on confidence. After a superb goal from Diego Forlan and a header ten minutes from time by sub Thiago the points looked safe. But Athletic Bilbao pulled a goal back in the dying minutes through Fernando Llorente, courtesy of a flying run from the impressive De Marcos, to set up a tense finale but the late equaliser never materialised. Atletis first real test passed with flying colours, though the biggest test of all is just around the corner. Home tie v Barca.

Valencia 1 - 0 Racing Santander

(1-0) 45' Maduro

Unai Emery couldnt have imagined a better start to the season in his wildest dreams. But sometimes the loss of a couple of stars can galvanise a team, and the departures of Villa and Silva seem to have done just that. Valencia were dreadful in the first half but numerous saves from veteran keeper Cesar and a late goal from Dutch defender Maduro sent 'Los Che' in at halftime in the lead. If Racing had brought their shooting boots it could have been a rout, but they were no doubt left in the cupboard back in Santander. The second half saw the home side find their rhythm, but there were to be no more goals. Only an unfortunate injury to midfield showman Ever Banega soured a win that sees Valencia on six points from six.

Villarreal 4 - 0 Espanyol
(1-0) 23' Rossi, (2-0) 31' Valero, (3-0) 55' Rossi (p), (4-0) 77' Nilmar

Sevilla 0 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña

Sporting Gijon 2 - 0 Mallorca
(1-0) 47' Botia, (2-0) 86' D. Castro (p)

Real Zaragoza 3 - 5 Malaga
(0-1) 1' Fernando, (0-2) 7' Juanmi, (0-3) 27' Fernando, (0-4) 29' Juanmi, (0-5) 34' Quincy, (1-5) 40' Edmilson, (2-5) 68' Marco Perez, (3-5) 80' Ander Herrera

Getafe 4 - 1 Levante
(1-0) 5' Gavilan, (2-0) 10' Colunga, (2-1) 13' Rafa Jorda, (3-1) 90' Gavilan, (4-1) 90' Arizmendi

Almeria 2 - 2 Real Sociedad
(0-1) 8' Tamudo, (1-1) 21' Piatti, (1-2) 33' Sutil, (2-2) 90' Ulloa

Last gasp Rodri sends Sevilla into Champions League (Highlights)

Almeria 2 - 3 Sevilla
(0-1) 16' Kanoute, (1-1) 44' Soriano, (1-2) 52' Chico (o.g), (2-2) 78' Juanma Ortiz, (2-3) 93' Rodri

Mallorca 2 - 0 Espanyol
(1-0) 23' Victor, (2-0) 77' Mario Suarez

Atletico Madrid 0 - 3 Getafe
(0-1) 13' Soldado, (0-2) 53' Soldado, (0-3) 86' Parejo

Real Zaragoza 3 - 3 Villarreal
(1-0) 3' Eliseu, (2-0) 29' Colunga, (3-0) 35' Pulido, (3-1) 40' Cazorla, (3-2) 56' Cazorla, (3-3) 82' Rossi

Athletic Bilbao 2 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña
(1-0) 19' Muniain, (2-0) 77' Javi Martinez

Real Madrid bounce back to see off Almeria (Highlights)

Almeria 1 - 2 Real Madrid
(1-0) 14' Crusat (1-1) 27' Cristiano Ronaldo (1-2) 69' Van der Vaart

It was by no means easy, but Real Madrid will be pleased with a job well done against a feisty Almeria as they left the Estadio Mediterraneo with three vital points that keeps the pressure on Barca. Juanma Lillo set up his side to frustrate Madrid and use the pace and trickery of Crusat and Piatti to hurt the visitors on the flanks, and it was all going to plan when Crusat put his side one up after 14 minutes following Kala Uches run and cross from the byline. At that point, Real Madrid were against the ropes and their season was threatening to implode, when that man Cristiano Ronaldo scored a beauty out of the blue to put his side back in the contest.

The celebration, a 'hand-to-ear' gesture, wasn't well received by his superiors who reprimanded the Portuguese star for his actions after the match. The winger from Madeira has clearly failed to learn his lesson after last weekends humbling from Barcelona. From then on it was a battle between Pellegrinis men and Almerias brilliant Brazilian Diego Alves, who must have produced at least five world class saves during the 90 minutes. Just as it looked like the keeper would wreck any lingering hopes Madrid have of clawing back Barca, Rafael Van der Vaart popped up to whip in a viscious strike and secure the win. Six matches left and they need Barca to falter in two. Not impossible. Just unlikely.

Valencia 2 - 0 Athletic Bilbao

(1-0) 34' Silva, (2-0) 62' Silva

Valencia all but confirmed their place in next seasons Champions League with a comfortable victory against Athletic Bilbao. Joaquin Caparros' men were never at the races and struggled to conjure up more than a few half chances that were all repelled by Cesar who is enjoying a fine twilight to his long career. They had been looking to secure their own European spot, but defeat leaves them only a point ahead of Getafe as they fight it out for the last Europa League position. For Valencia, David Silva was in fine form and notched both goals in either half. His first was a relatively simple chance from only a metre out, but the second was pure Silva magic. Collecting Joaquins pass inside the area, he controlled and turned inside his defender in one movement, before shifting the ball onto his wand of a left foot and curling it out of Iraizozs reach and into the far corner. His partner in crime, David Villa, had one of his quieter nights and Spain fans will be hoping he recaptures his killer instinct soon as South Africa approaches.

On a further note, it will come as little surprise who has emerged as Real Madrids new summer target. I'll give you all a clue....Valencia are in town this weekend. Only a matter of months after Jesus Navas was target numero uno, coincidentally just before they were set to play Sevilla, David Silva has now replaced him at the top of Florentinos infamous wishlist. Subtlety has never been their finest quality. Next week it will be Jermaine Pennant!

Bojan to the double as Barca breeze past Bilbao (Highlights)

Barcelona 4 - 1 Athletic Bilbao
(1-0) 26' Jeffren, (2-0) 41' Bojan, (3-0) 58' Bojan, (4-0) 66' Messi, (4-1) 76' Susaeta

I read recently that many 'people' thought Barcelona didn't have a strong squad. Made me chuckle. Those who doubted before, can surely doubt no more. Today against Athletic Bilbao, Jeffren, Bojan, Pedro and Jonathon all got minutes. Chygrynskiy played at centre-back and Maxwell filled in out on the left wing. Not one let Guardiola down. A team challenging for the Champions League positions no less where in town. 90 minutes and four goals later, those who had questioned the strength in depth were eating their words and Pep was back to the drawing board for Tuesdays tie against Arsenal. Tonight Bojan was back to his best. Two clinically taken goals reminded everyone why he caused such a fuss when he arrived on the scene two years ago. Victor Valdes continues to put his name forward for that final goalkeeper slot in Del Bosques squad. He's got the quality, no doubt about it, but when you consider what role the third keeper usually plays during a World Cup, namely a glorified cheerleader, you suspect he might miss the cut. Lionel Messi joined the party late on with a well-taken goal to make it 26 league goals for the season. Athletic had started strongly, but once Bojan had put Barca 1-0 up, they slowly disintegrated into a disorganised mess. It happens to the best of them in the Camp Nou. So onto Arsenal, and then you know who.

Real Zaragoza 2 - 0 Malaga
(1-0) 45' Ponzio, (2-0) 75' Suazo

Slowly but surely Real Zaragoza are dragging themselves away from the bottom three, and it seems certain that La Romareda will be welcoming first division football next season. Many questioned the appointment of ex-player Jose Aurelio Gay, if for nothing else but his unfortunate surname, but the man has worked wonders, and turned around a squad that was low and confidence and staring a second straight relegation full on in the face. The winter signings have also played their part, alongside the mercurial Ander Herrera, who continues to attract the interest of Arsene Wenger. The tricky youngster would be right at home in The Emirates. Today Ponzio set Zaragoza on the road to 32 points, with a bullet from outside the box that brought back memories of Diogos screamer last week against Valencia. 'Chupete' Suazo sealed the points with a well-taken strike on the volley, as Malaga offered very little. Infact they offered nothing and they are now rooted in a relegation dogfight. Ah, and can someone please explain to me why taking your shirt off in celebration of a goal warrants a yellow card? Lunacy.

Sevilla 3 - 0 Tenerife

(1-0) 22' Kanoute, (2-0) 44' Fabiano, (3-0) 88' Jose Carlos

Sevilla finally got their Champions League push back on track with a solid victory over relegation-doomed Tenerife, who are still to register a win away from home this season. It wasn't spectacular by any means, and before Frederic Kanoute slotted in their first, there were some hairy moments at the back, but the most important thing tonight were the three points. Luis Fabiano got back into goalscoring ways with a sumptuous turn and finish, before youth team product Jose Carlos wrapped things up with a delicious free-kick. Back in business at the Sanchez Pizjuan.

Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo to the double: Real Madrid return to the top

Getafe 2 - 4 Real Madrid
(1-0) 13' Ronaldo, (2-0) 20' Higuain, (3-0) 23' Higuain, (4-0) 37' Ronaldo, (1-4) 38' Parejo, (2-4) 80' Pedro Leon

It had been widely reported before the match that Real Madrid had a worse game to points ratio in El Coliseum than in the Camp Nou. If it had even entered the minds of Real Madrids stars, it certainly didn't show. The first half of this match was so one-sided, such an incessant wave of white movement, it was almost embarrasing to watch. Xavi Alonso was majestic in the middle, ordering his artillery ahead of him with the precision he so often demonstrated at Anfield. Shots rained down on Ustaris goal with such alarming regularity, Getafe must have felt like throwing in the towel at half time. With Cristiano Ronaldo and Higuain in this mood, you havn't got much hope.

The first goal came courtesy of yet another Cristiano Ronaldo free-kick, as he continues to consolidate his position as the deadliest player from set pieces on the planet; todays was his sixth this season. Most players have to choose between power or precision. Not Cristiano. Todays free-kick was only inches outside the box, yet he managed to curl it up over the wall and into the top corner with such force, it had flown past Ustari before he had time to react. Then Gonzalo Higuain took over with two typically Higuain goals. The Argentine is dynamite in the area. His goals just so effortless, with the striker almost strolling through the Getafe defence and past the keeper for his second. If Higuain is the silent assassin, Cristiano is a full-on missile launcher. Having bamboozled Mario with a series of stepovers, he let fly with another short, sharp swing of his right boot; the ball a blur as it shot past a shellshocked Ustari.

Getafe hit back with two goals of their own, but it was just a case of salvaging pride. Parejo took advantage of a Casillas mistake to stroke into an empty net, although many will feel the goal was unjust as Casillas lay stricken on the turf after being subject of a robust, although perfectly legitimate, challenge from the goalscorer. The match inevitably slowed down after that avalanche of goals, with Pedro Leon netting the final goal with ten minutes remaining. As the game peetered out, Pedro Mosquero was finally handed his debut. A talented midfielder who has worked his way up from the Castilla reserves, Madrid fans will hope he is the first of many youngsters to make the breakthough in the coming years. In the meantime it is the job of their Galacticos to ensure that Barca don't walk away with a second successive league title. The Clasico in three weeks promises to be electric, but  before Barca come to town they have a derby to take care of.

Atletico Madrid 2 - 0 Athletic Bilbao

(1-0) 54' Forlan, (2-0) 86' Agüero

Atletico Madrid returned to winning ways after their horror show in Mallorca with a vital victory against Athletic Bilbao which reignited their push for Europe. Lead by an impeccable performance from Tomas Ujfalusi, who handled big Fernando Llorente as well as any defender this season, Atletico survived a first half onslaught from the Basque side and hit them with two second half sucker punches. Diego Forlan got the first just before the hour, as he took advantage of a slide rule pass from Valera to sidefoot past  Gorka Iraizoz. The goal was his tenth against Atheltic, more than against any other side, and the celebration had more than tinge of anger, as he let out a few weeks of frustration by gesturing angrily to the crowd. 'People have a short memory' he said after the match, a clear sign that the fans complaints about his lack of form havn't gone unnoticed.

Bilbao tried to fight back, but in vain and the game was over when Sergio Agüero tricked his way into the area before firing in. Athletic will feel hard done by, with Javi Martinez and Gabilondo both putting in impressive shifts. How they needed the killer instinct of Atleticos front two. So Atletico move towards the Bernabeu in high spirits. Only five points off the UEFA spots, in the final of the Copa del Rey and in the last eight of the Europe League. Crisis? What crisis?

Check out what the lads at MadridAtleticos thought about the match HERE!

Real Madrid fight back to go three points clear

Real Madrid 3 - 1 Sporting Gijon

(1-0) 53' Barral, (1-1) 54' Van der Vaart, (2-1) 57' Alonso, (3-1) 68' Higuain

Real Madrid rattled off their 14th consecutive league victory in the Santiago Bernabeu this season, as they came from behind to beat a plucky Sporting Gijon. The home fans certainly won't have relished a drab first half, and things got even worse after the break when an exquisite pass over the top from Camacho sent David Barral through on goal with the striker composing himself before firing an unstoppable shot past Iker Casillas. But back came Madrid only a minute later with a goal that had more than a hint of controversy about it, as Rafael Van der Vaart appeared to handle the ball in the box before shooting in after Juan Pablo could only parry Cristianos rocket of a free-kick. Then Real Madrid went straight into the lead, after a prodigious leap from Cristiano Ronaldo flicked on a corner towards an unmarked Xavi Alonso who made no mistake with his header from close range. Gonzalo Higuain rounded things off and made the points safe with a dashing run and shot, which takes his league total for the season to 20. They might not be setting the world alight, but they sure know how to grind out those league points, with Barcelona now obliged to get a win away to Real Zaragoza tomorrow. Advantage Real Madrid in the race for La Liga.

Xerez 2 - 1 Tenerife

(1-0) 7' Bermejo, (2-0) 15' Aythami, (2-1) 49' Nino

In terms of quality it was like watching a third division match, but Xerez won't care one bit as they grabbed three points that allows them to continue believing in the impossible. In all reality, Xerez staying up is impossible, especially when you think that they still have to travel to Sevilla, Valencia, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid before the season comes to a close. Even so, what Nestor Gorosito has achieved since he walked into the madhouse has been more than noteworthy, and Xerez fans will surely be thinking what could have been if we had started the season with the Argentine manager in charge. Mario Bermejo got the first early doors, but from where I was sitting it looked like the keeper Aragoneses took his header comfortably on the chest; the linesman must have seen him fall back behind the line. Aythami quickly made it two after some chaos in the Tenerife box, and it finally looked as if were about to witness a rout. The rout never materialised, and once midfield enforcer Sidi Keita was forced off injured, it all got very untidy in the middle of the park. Tenerife were awarded a dodgy looking penalty towards the end of the first half, but in the midst of pandamonium-like noise, newly restored keeper/hero Chema came to rescue, pushing away Ninos tame effort. Nino wasnt to be completely denied though, as the tiny striker somehow beat two huge centre halves to a header early in the second half, which cut the defecit. Tenerife probed for much of the second half, but the equaliser never came. So, can Xerez do the unthinkable and stay up? It would be the stuff of legend, but those away matches will surely put pay to any small hopes that still linger.

Espanyol 2 - 0 Sevilla
(1-0) 8' Osvaldo, (2-0) 60' Osvaldo

Is this the end of Manolo Jimenez as Sevilla boss? A tame defeat for the Andalucians as Espanyol ran the show in the Estadio Cornella. Espanyol unbeaten at home since losing 0-4 to Racing in December, a run that will surely secure their survival in La Liga.

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 2 Real Valladolid
(0-1) 39' Nauzet (0-2) 91' Medjunanin

Real Valladolid kept a clean sheet for the first time in 17 matches as they overcame a disappointing Deportivo la Coruña in the Riazor. The win keeps Valladolid very much alive in their fight for top flight survival as Depor take a step back in their hunt for the Europa League positions.

Athletic Bilbao 2 - 2 Getafe
(1-0) 13' Orbaiz, (1-1) 32' Manu, (2-1) 81' Llorente, (2-2) 86' Pedro Leon

Crazy match at the San Mames, as Getafe dominated but saw themselves obliged to fight back to earn a draw in the dying minutes. Orbaiz and Miguel Torres were sent off for either side as a feisty encounter ended in a draw that does little for either teams European ambitions.

La Liga Sunday: Atletico Madrid saved by last gasp Ibra

Real Zaragoza 1 - 1 Atlético Madrid

(1-0) 5' Jarosik, (1-1) 92' Ibra

Real Zaragoza were left to rue their inability to sink ten men Atlético as they succumbed to a last gasp leveller from substitute Ibra. 'Los Maños' were hardly spectacular, but they had the better of the chances as Atlético Madrid failed to live up to the lofty expectation their recent form has created. Teixeira Vitienes delivered a refereeing performance of such inaptitute, with the faltering reputation of Spanish referees plunging to new depths as he perplexed everyone with some astonishingly poor decisions. Poor Jose Antonio Reyes the principle victim, as the inspired winger was kicked into the ground with Real Zaragoza employing some robust tactics to stem the Atlético tide. Jiri Jarosik had headed Zaragoza into an early lead, and when an utterly fed-up Reyes was sent off for flinging out a stray elbow which connected with Eliseu, the home team looked on course to collect a much-needed three points. That was until late substitute Ibra powered in a header in the dying seconds from Jurados cross, to rescue ten-men Atletico a point. Shame is, the match will be remembered for some inept refereeing which saw the man in black, so horribly out of his depth, show nine yellow cards.

UEFA Europa League: Atletico, Valencia, Athletic and Villarreal all suffer

A shocking night for the La Liga contingent in the UEFA Europa League as not one out of the four Spanish sides managed a win. Atletico Madrid can count themselves seriously unlucky as they put in another eye-catching performance against Frank Rijkaards Galatasaray, and looked to be on course for a well-earned win through in-form Jose Antonio Reyes' stunning free-kick. But just after the impressive De Gea had been taken off with a muscle strain, the defence went missing for a split second and it was enough for Keita to sneak in unmarked at the backpost to score a precious away goal. The result will be a blow, but playing like this, I wouldn´t bet against Atlético pulling it off in Turkey. They'll need a sharp Diego Forlán, a fired-up Sergio Agüero and for their back four to concentrate for the whole 90 minutes (possible?), but with players like Reyes and Simao hitting top form further up the field, they can travel to Istanbul in confident mood.

Villarreal took an early lead but had to come from behind to draw with Wolfsburg after prolific Brazilian striker Grafite had netted a brace. Athletic Bilbao also came from behind, as Gorka Iraizoz gifted Anderlecht their opener, with the Basque indebted to on-loan defender San Jose who grabbed the equaliser. Struggling Valencia have it all to do in their tie as their poor recent form continued tonight. A 1-0 defeat against Brugges, a red card for David Silva and another defensive injury to contend with, as Matheiu suffered a sprained ankle, capped off a thoroughly dismal evening for 'Los Che'. Unai Emery will be praying David Villas drought doesn't continue for much longer, because without his goals they are suffering. And how many times does that man hit the post?

UEFA Europa League (Round of  32: First Leg)

Atletico Madrid 1 - 1 Galatasaray

Villarreal 2 - 2 Wolfsburg

Brugge 1 - 0 Valencia

Athletic Bilbao 1 - 1 Anderlecht

La Liga Saturday: Cristiano Ronaldo scores double in Xerez

Xerez 0 - 3 Real Madrid
(0-1) 64' Arbeloa, (0-2) 70' Cristiano Ronaldo, (0-3) 71' Cristiano Ronaldo

Real Madrid didn't falter as they successfully added extra pressure on Barcelona at the top of La Liga. It wasn't pretty and it took them until the 64th minute to make the breakthrough, but once they did they devastated a worn-out Xerez side that had given as good as they had got. The atmosphere inside Chapin was predictably hostile and they got right behind their side as they got stuck into Real Madrids new galacticos. Xerez even had the better of the chances in the first 45 minutes as Momo and Carlos Calvo could easily have out their side infront. But in the second half, they tired badly and after Arbeloa had put Madrid infront with his first goal in Spanish football, finishing off a slick move with a wonderfully calm finish, Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaká took over. For Cristianos first, Kaká whipped over a lovely ball that Ronaldo bullet-headered into the net. One minute later the Brazilian repeated the trick with a squared pass in the area that Ronaldo tucked away with minimal fuss. Thats what €150 million gets you. The biggest disappointment of the match was Gonzalo Higuaín, who went completely missing and was subbed after 66 minutes. But today was all about Cristiano as a ruthless Madrid leave Jerez with three points in the bag, with an injury-hit Barca under pressure to maintain their five point advantage at Atlético tomorrow.

La Liga Sunday Highlights: Real Zaragoza lift themselves out the relegation zone

Real Zaragoza 2 - 1 Sevilla

(1-0) 30' Contini, (1-1) 32' Kanoute, (2-1) 40' Negredo (o.g)

Sevilla clearly had their minds focused elsewhere as Real Zaragoza recorded an important win that lifted them out of the relegation zone. Manolo Jimenez rested Luis Fabiano and Jesus Navas, but the Sevilla team still had enough quality to trouble a newly-assembled Zaragoza outfit. They even managed to pull level only two minutes after going behind to Continis foirst goal for his new club, but a moment of indecision from striker Alvaro Negredo saw him divert the ball past Andres Palop for what proved to be the winning goal. Real Zaragoza will be pleased with what was probably their best performance of the season so far, but they were helped by an impotent Sevilla side who clearly wanted to get the game out of the way before their cup semi-final second leg against Getafe; a game that Stankevicius and Negredo will miss through suspension having seen red tonight.

Saturdays Liga Highlights: Barca streak five points clear as Madrid fire blanks

Athletic Bilbao 1 - 0 Real Madrid
(1-0) 2' Llorente

Athletic Bilbao came out all guns blazing as they struck the post twice and scored the decisive goal inside the first two minutes to send Real Madrid crashing to a demoralising defeat. Fernando Llorente headed in from an early corner after Lass had directed the ball into his path, rewarding Bilbao for a riproaring start that had the Madridistas rocking. From then on it was the Iraizoz show as the keeper repelled everything Ronaldo, Kaká and Benzema sent his way. Incredible as it sounds, with hundreds of millions of euros on the pitch, Real Madrid lacked a killer instinct infront of goal that Gonzalo Higuain had been providing of late, with Kaká and Ronaldo particularly guilty of squandering chances. To his credit, Benzema was sharp on his return to the side and was unlucky to hit the post with one of the few chances that came his way. But Athletic Bilbao hung on to claim a famous victory as Real Madrid drop five points behind Barca with some of the press claiming it to be an unassailable lead; ridiculous with not even half the season gone, but many more of these types of displays, especially away from the Bernabeu, and it really will be title charge over.

Barcelona 4 - 0 Sevilla

(1-0) 49' Escude (o.g), (2-0) 70' Pedro, (3-0) 85' Messi, (4-0) 90' Messi

Barcelona exacted revenge on Sevilla as they thrashed the Andalucians only days after being knocked out of the cup. Yet during a fairly dull first half, it looked as if Sevilla were going to spring another surprise on the league leaders, as their two defensive banks of four did well to restrict the time and space Barca had on the ball. When Barcelona did work a way through the mass of bodies Sevilla planted infront of the ball, they found Andres Palop in the same form that had seen him single-handedly knock Barca out of the Copa del Rey. But whatever Guardiola said to his team at the break worked as they smashed in four goals, including a gorgeous dink from sub Pedro and two late goals from La Liga topscorer Lionel Messi to send Sevilla south with another league defeat to ponder upon. Manolo Jiminez will want Luis Fabiano and Kanoute back as soon as possible as without them they lack any sort of goalthreat. It was also strange Renato spent the whole match sat on the bench, as they seriously missed his organisation and guile in the middle of the pitch. Barca march on as their mini-crisis (what crisis?) has been stamped out with nine goals in two games.

Osasuna 2 - 0 Espanyol

(1-0) 7' Juanfran, (2-0) 8' Pandiani

Osasuna had gone five games without winning, four games without scoring, and four games without a win at home. But they only needed one minute to end all three runs as Juanfran and Walter Pandiani (perhaps the finest headerer of the ball in La Liga) sent their team into an early lead against Espanyol which was enough to earn them three vital points in their battle to drag themselves away from the relegation zone. Espanyol were never at the races, and even though they perked up after a dismal opening half hour, chances were few and far between and Pochettino will be worried by the lack of fight and passion his players showed during the match. Without Tamudo and Luis Garcia, their two best strikers by a country mile, scoring goals will be a struggle.

UEFA Europa League: Valencia complete Italian Job

Genoa 1 - 2 Valencia

(0-1)  45' Bruno, (1-1) 51' Crespo, (1-2) 90' Villa

Valencia came through a thrilling encounter in Genoa to finish the group unbeaten, but more importantly on top of the pile, which means they avoid the Champions League rejects, and those other teams that finished top in their groups. The game was end-to-end stuff, with Valencia soaking up some incessant Italian pressure and punching the home side on the counter whenever they were given the ball. Perhaps just as entertaining was Unai Emerys theatrics on the touchline. The man is bonkers, but he is doing a sterling job. David Villa ran his heart out all night in an attempt to offer an escape route for the Valencia midfield and was rewarded with the goal that gave his side a notable victory against a well-organised and dangerous Genoa led by veteran Hernan Crespo.

Europa League Results:

Villarreal 0 - 1 FC Salzburg  (Villarreal finish second and qualify for the next round)

(0-1) 6' Svento

Athletic Bilbao 0 - 3 Werder Bremen (Athletic Bilbao finish second and qualify for the next round)

(0-1) 13' Pizarro, (0-2) 20' Naldo, (0-3) 36' Rosenburg

La Liga Results Matchday 14: Who needs Kaká and CR9?

Valencia 2 - 3 Real Madrid

(0-1) 54' Higuaín, (1-1) 60' Villa, (1-2) 65' Higuaín, (2-2) 80' Joaquín, (2-3) 83' Garay

• Many, including me, expected Valencia to spring a surprise today, especially with Kaká and CR9 missing. Real Madrid were having none of it as they put in a perfect counter-attacking display, lead by Higuaín, to stun 'Los Che'.  The only negative was the shattering news that Pepe might have suffered knee ligament damage after falling awkwardly in the first half.
  
• David Villa got his goal but it was to no avail as Gonzalo Higuaín proved he is just as lethal in the area with two brilliantly taken goals. Benzema set up the first with a lovely chipped cross and had a busy night, always offering an outlet upfront and hounding the Valencia defence. All that's failing him right now is the final pass or shot, but that will come with time.
  
• Valencia fought back twice but seemed a little out of sorts in the second half after a lively opening. Mata and Pablo Hernandez couldnt quite get into the match, but that was probably down to solid defensive work from Arbeloa, Ramos and Lass. Iker Casillas had an absolute shocker with both Valencia goals, but Garay got him out of jail and sent Real Madrid 6 points clear of Unai Emerys team. Only two in it now? I fear so.
  

Barcelona 1 - 0 Espanyol

(1-0) 39' Ibrahimovic (p)

• The formbook was well and truly ripped up in this one as Espanyol gave as good as they got against their illustrious neighbours in a heated Catalan derby. Forlín and Parejo played blinders for the visitors as Iniesta and Xavi were squeezed out of the match, leaving Ibrahimovic to feed off scraps. The only thing Espanyol lacked was a presence upfront. They desparately need a goalscorer in January.
  
• Leo Messi was presented with his Ballon D'Or prior to kick off but he was sorely missed during the match. There had been a massive debate this week in Spain about who is most negatively affected: Barca without Messi or Real Madrid without Cristiano. Perhaps tonight gave a slight clue.
  
• Pep Guardiola has claimed that Baena had conceded that he did give away a penalty. I have my suspicions about that, as Xavi tripped himself up. Zlatan blanked out the controversy to smash in the pen. Has anyone noticed that all of his goals have come from first touches? Flicks, volleys, headers, pens and free-kicks. He is a sublime footballer.
  

Real Zaragoza 1 - 2 Athletic Bilbao

(0-1) 60' San Jose, (0-2) 81' Susaeta, (1-2) 91' Diogo

• Real Zaragoza are in deep trouble, especially as news broke minutes after the match that coach Marcelino had been given the boot. It seems the Zaragoza directors havn't learned their lesson from 2007/2008 when they went through four coaches and got relegated. Marcelino had been working miracles with what he had at his disposal. The defence is a laughing stock.
  
• But that won't bother Joaquin Caparros and his men as they continue their solid start to the season with a fine away win. Iker Muniain came on in the 58th minute with the score locked at 0-0. 25 mins later it was 0-2 after two inch perfect assists from the little star. What a future he has ahead of him.
  
• So what now for Real Zaragoza? Ex-player Jose Aurelio Gay takes temporary charge as they search a replacement. Money has to be made available to the new manager in January, as Ayala and Pavon just don't cut it at this level. Neither does Arizmendi upfront, but with limited funds they might have to make do.

Villas mission, Messi's ankle and another kid from Bilbao

Twice a year David Villa has to come out infront of the cameras and state he has nothing to prove. Strangely enough it always seems to happen on the eve of a Valencia - Real Madrid match. Of course it's no coincidence. Real Madrid have been after Valencias hottest property for some time, and after a failed attempt to sign the hitman last summer, all eyes will be on Señor Villa as he plots to down his possible future employers, and 'prove' his future €50 million price tag. As if he hasn't done that already!

One thing from his biannual interview did get me thinking though. He stated he was disappointed that Kaká and Ronaldo will miss the game, as playing against the best players always motivates you to perform on the day. Now I never know what to believe. Are they telling the truth? Or do they just feel obliged to say that, but deep down are delighted that they'll miss the match as it gives their team a huge advantage?

_

It won't just be Kaká and Cristiano who will be missing this weekends matches. As well as tens of others who I am not aware of, Lionel Messi will also be absent from matchday 14 having suffered a slight sprain in his ankle shortly after delivering that sumptuous free kick against Dynamo Kiev. It's not surprising really, those Kiev midfielders were hungry for blood that night, and poor Leo took the brunt of their aggression. Luckily for Guardiola its only the derby this weekend. After a quick flick through the formbook,  they could rest Messi, Xavi, Iniesta and Ibrahimovic and still run out easy winners. But derbies don't work like that, as Espanyols win in the Camp Nou last year proved.

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Not content with producing one highly promising teenager this season, Athletic Bilbao are set to release yet another kid into the unforgiving world of Spanish football. Jonás Ramalho is his name, and the young defender has been placed on Bilbaos list for the next stage in the Europa League and there are even whispers that he could be given his La Liga debut soon. The 16 year old is of Angolan descent but 'qualifies' to play as his mother is Basque. It should also be made clear that Athletic have relaxed their rule a little to allow 'foreign' players to play for the club, provided they were developed in the area. Ramalho made his debut in a friendly aged just 14 years (funnily enough in the same match in which Iker Muniain made his debut), and made the headlines for being the first black player to represent the club. Another Basque kiddo to look out for.