Barcelona survived a tough start to the match against the always difficult Real Betis, but Lionel Messi once again took things into his own hands and scored three goals to see off their challengers. Barcelona would also get a goal from Luis Suarez while Loren Moron would score the consolidation goal for the home side.
In a thunderous atmosphere at the Benito Villamarin, Ernesto Valverde was looking to increase the La Liga lead after Atletico Madrid’s loss yesterday, sending out a powerful starting eleven. The defense was up to full strength, though there was a surprise in midfield as all of Sergio Busquets, Arthur, Ivan Rakitiu0107 and Arturo Vidal started, while Philippe Coutinho was left on the bench.