Madrid, Jan 25: Barcelona achieved a comfortable 6-0 away win against Elche in Matchday 20 of La Liga. Star attackers Lionel Messi and Neymar both had braces while centre-back Gerard Pique and winger Pedro added a goal each to lead the team's dominant performance. The club enjoyed 77 percent of possession, created 12 goal-scoring chances and attempted 11 shots, eight of them were on target.
Luis Enrique opted to rotate several of his key players in a match in which the Catalans were the clear favourites. Such theory was quickly confirmed once the ball started rolling, with the visitors controlling the game effectively while trying to find gaps within their opponents' backline.
Barcelona's first goal scored by Pique in the 35 minute from an astute move by Xavi, changed the game completely. From that point on, Barca were able to build on that lead comfortably. The many goals that followed were a clear reflection of the vast difference in terms of budget and quality between both clubs.
The Catalan club's third consecutive victory in the domestic league helps them keep the pressure firmly on current leaders Real Madrid. While the difference is still one point despite Los Blancos having played one fewer game, Barcelona's fans hope that their team's current streak will help them climb to the top of the table sooner rather than later. NET