Barcelona took full advantage of Real Madrid's dreadful first-half display at Camp Nou, setting the stage for a Clasico triumph on Sunday.
Luis Suarez hit a hat-trick as Julen Lopetegui's dismal Real Madrid reign appeared to near its end in a 5-1 Clasico humiliation at the hands of Barcelona.
Former Spain boss Lopetegui was said to be on the brink of the sack after losing to Levante last week and he cut a disheartened figure on the Camp Nou touchline as Madrid were dismantled in his 14th game in charge.
The irrepressible Suarez led Barca, who were rampant even without Lionel Messi and capitalised on their rivals' failings to move back to the top of LaLiga.