Lionel Messi produced a brilliant winner for Barcelona as they defeated Villarreal 3-2 yesterday.
Villarreal, unbeaten in any competition since the start of November, were briefly on course for their first win over Barca in 12 attempts thanks to goals from Denis Cheryshev and Luciano Vietto, which sandwiched a Neymar equaliser.
However, Barca then struck twice in quick succession during a frenetic start to the second half to record an eighth successive win in league and cup, Rafinha drawing the teams level before Messi curled home a stunning 20-yard strike.
Villarreal pushed for an equaliser but Barca held firm to remain a point behind Real Madrid at the top of the Primera Division.
"Our reactions indicate that the team can overcome any situation," said coach Luis Enrique. He also acknowledged that when it was 3-2 they wanted "to continue attacking to close out the game."
"We didn't let up," he added.
For the big stories and the banter follow us on Twitter: @tribalfootball